“Lyon was subdued! “United Gets Down to Business in the Preseason” 2025
You could feel the rust trembling off for a brief moment. This preseason Manchester United took the field to convey a message in addition to testing formations and stretching their legs. We’re not here for holiday jogs and that message was very clear. Our purpose is to work.
United appeared more focused hungry and—let’s be honest—intentional against a historically tough Lyon team. Since it’s the preseason there wasn’t a lack of experimentation but what about the play patterns? The triggers that are pressing? The movement off the ball? Everything suggested that something was about to happen. It’s very Ten Hag.
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Grit, youth, and a little swagger
Without some youthful mayhem, what would preseason be? United’s young players contributed tempo and tenacity from the first whistle. In particular, Kobbie Mainoo exuded poise that was well beyond his years. He’s making a strong case for more first-team time because he’s calm on the ball, fearless in duels, and has a vision that sliced through Lyon’s midfield like a scalpel.
Defenders detest Amad Diallo’s bursts of unpredictable behavior. He was a pain in Lyon’s side until he was substituted because of his quick turns, inventive link-ups, and distinctively low center of gravity.
What about Hannibal Mejbri? It was still raw but the fire was palpable. He fights war on the field; he doesn’t play football. It’s the kind of energy that could spread like wildfire over the course of a season
The Objective That Modified the Tone
Let’s discuss what made Old Trafford (and the traveling fans) stand up. It was fluid but not ostentatious. The forgotten man, Donny van de Beek, hammered home a volley that shouted, “I’m not done yet,” after a brief passing sequence down the right and a sharp run into the box.
He didn’t overdo the celebration. It wasn’t necessary. When you’re here to remind people that you still have a role to play, you score goals like that. Perhaps there is more to this preseason than just fitness. Perhaps Donny is ready to make amends.
Tactical Takeaways
Yes, it’s early. Yes, it’s just Lyon. But Ten Hag’s blueprint is beginning to engrave itself deeper into this squad:
Pressing Triggers: Rather than just running headlong United pressed in deliberate waves. Without coughing up the ball Lyon found it difficult to get out of their third.
Build-up from the Back: As the pivot dropped in the center-backs particularly Lisandro Martinez and Jonny Evans (yes that Jonny Evans) felt at ease splitting wide. It was deliberate, not improvised.
Positional Play: The wingers remained high and wide while the full-backs tucked in. The triangles were sharp and the lanes were clear.
It’s more than preseason emotions, but it’s not quite football yet. It’s a framework. And for years we haven’t regularly witnessed that at United.
Football has returned, bringing with it the excitement, flair, and unmistakable buzz that permeates every Manchester United preseason game. The Red Devils defeated French team Olympique Lyonnais with flair, swagger, and a declaration of intent, providing a tantalizing preview to a crowd eager to see what the upcoming campaign holds.
First Impressions: Fresh Legs, Familiar Fire
Preseason games can occasionally seem like slow burns because of their cagey starts, frequent substitutions, and focus on fitness rather than style. Not tonight, though. United made a strong start, pressing high, moving the ball with speed, and demonstrating how Erik ten Hag’s philosophy is changing every month.
Experience and youth were mixed in the lineup, but what about the chemistry? You’re right. Bruno Fernandes appeared to be in mid-season form already, manipulating strings like a puppet master. In the meantime, summer acquisition [Insert Player Name, if known] fit right in like he’d been in red his entire life: composed, self-assured, and clinical.
The Breakthrough: Rashford’s Roar
United broke through Lyon’s high line in just eighteen minutes. Marcus Rashford who had just finished a successful off-season scored with his signature low drive after a clever midfield combination. Although the finish was spotless, the build-up? Football poetry at its purest. The crowd in Oslo erupted when United lost by one goal.
Cool as You Like: Casemiro’s Command
Casemiro brought the ice if Rashford brought the fire. Lyon never really had a foothold in the middle of the park because of the Brazilian midfield general’s commanding presence. He showed us all why he’s still among the best in the game by stopping attacks, making long passes, and even finding time for a cheeky step-over.
Substitutions and Standouts: Academy Bright Sparks
Ten Hag unleashed a torrent of young people as the second half went on. And the children did not let us down. The left flank was especially brightened by Omari Forson, who dazzled with his daring runs and fast feet. Mason Mount, who looks rejuvenated in red after a difficult debut season, coolly finished United’s second goal after his cutback.
The icing on the cake was a third goal, tucked away by 18-year-old Dan Gore, whose assured finish belied his age. Preseason is all about getting a sneak peek at the future, and this one appears to be promising.
Lyon’s Late Fightback (Sort Of)
Lyon did not roll over, to their credit. In the 83rd minute, Lacazette completed a skillful move to give them a late comeback. However, the game was decided by that point. United had fulfilled their obligations and then some.
This was a message, not just a match. Compared to the same period last year, Ten Hag’s team appeared more agile, fit, and quick. There is cause for genuine optimism because of their stronger squad, young players who are working hard, and their apparent shape. In the press conference following the game, the manager himself summed it up best:
Final Whistle Thoughts
Lyon was not simply beaten, but subdued. The performance was a preview of what this United team is aiming for, even though the outcome isn’t the end-all in July.
The second season of Ten Hag seems to be getting off to a quieter and more focused start. Not a Cristiano circus. No confusion among caregivers. Only football. Just advancement. The children are pushing. The system is clicking.
