Match post: United win on penalties

Manchester United seal a shootout victory over Fiorentina after a 1-1 draw in their final pre-season outing at the training ground.

Man United win on penalties after Gosens own goal cancels Fiorentina lead

In the opening 25 minutes, Simon Sohm gave Fiorentina the lead and Robin Gosens scored an own goal to level for United. No further action followed in normal time, sending the match to a shootout. Altay Bayindir produced the only save of the ten kicks, from Fiorentina's fifth attempt, and Kobbie Mainoo converted to seal a 5-4 win for United.

Before kickoff, United unveiled four summer signings—Matheus Cunha, Diego Leon, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko—who were presented to supporters. Also, David De Gea returned to M16 and received a commemorative award from Bruno Fernandes, a moment that underscored the club’s sense of history as the new season approaches.

This result signals United’s plan to build depth and competition ahead of the season. The mix of new arrivals with established players suggests a thoughtful squad-building approach rather than a quick fix. De Gea’s return adds a link to the club’s past that could help steady the group during change.

Pre-season matches often prize attitude over execution, and a winning mentality in penalties can translate into confidence once real games begin. The night also offered a glimpse of how youth and experience might blend in the rounds to come, with Mainoo and other academy talents earning valuable late-game exposure.

Highlights

The road to the new season still holds surprises for United