Manchester United continued their pre-season in the US and the Premier League Summer Series with a clash in Chicago against a side that last year earned huge plaudits for their impressive efforts and tactical understanding of their manager Iraola. United could look to use Bournemouth’s efforts last season as a sign of the progress that can be made with a team playing as a unit, working under the managers philosophies and stepping up to a whole next level.

With United slowly upping their efforts and performance in pre-season, notably last time out with a win over West Ham, this game showed that under Amorim, United are improving and while some will claim that there’s much more to be done in the transfer market, or that pre-season results and performances don’t matter all that much, it ultimately showed a strong sign of progress.

As always, if you have any thoughts on Manchester United ahead of the new season or in this specific game, get in touch with us by leaving a comment, following us on Bluesky (@NextGoalWinner) or Instagram (@NextGoalWin) and check out our YouTube channel (@NextGoalWinner).

Teams

Manchester United: Heaton, Shaw (Heaven 71′), Maguire (De Ligt 46′), Yoro (Fredricson 71′), Dorgu (Leon 71′), Fernandes (Mainoo 71′), Casemiro (Ugarte 71′), Dalot (Collyer 71′), Mount (Mantato 71′), Amad (Williams 71′), Hojlund (Obi-Martin 71′)

Subs: Bayindir, Mee, Munro, Fletcher, Kone

Bournemouth: Petrovic (Dennis 62′), Soler (Smith 62′), Senesi, Zabarnyi (Mepham 76′), Araujo (Truffert 62′), Hill (Traore 62′), Billing (Faivre 76′), Ouattara (Brooks 62′), Tavernier (Adams 76′), Semenyo, Evanilson (Adu-Adjei 76′)

Subs: Paulsen, Neto, William, Winterburn, Rees-Dottin

Manchester United 4-1 Bournemouth

Manchester United delivered a commanding 4‑1 win over Bournemouth on Wednesday in their Premier League Summer Series clash at Soldier Field in Chicago. Rasmus Højlund opened the scoring inside eight minutes, glancing a delicate header from a precise Patrick Dorgu cross past Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrović. Dorgu doubled the lead in the 25th minute, finishing low after a quick-thinking ball through from Mason Mount, who had spotted his run with pace and accuracy. The first half was played in torrential rain and strong wind, conditions that the United players handled with composure and control.

United extended their advantage early in the second half when Amad Diallo tucked in from close range in the 53rd minute after holding play in the box, Højlund felt he might have gotten a touch, but the goal was awarded to Diallo. Later on, teenage substitute Ethan Williams made an immediate impact after coming on around the 70th minute, curling a neat finish into the bottom corner to make it 4‑0. Bournemouth’s lone response came via an unfortunate late own goal from Matthijs de Ligt, who deflected a David Brooks cross into his own net just before full‑time, denying Tom Heaton a clean sheet.

The performance offered plenty of encouraging signs for manager Ruben Amorim and his squad. Højlund impressed not only with his goal but also with his hold‑up play, movement and link‑up game, qualities the manager singled out amid speculation over United’s pursuit of Benjamin Sesko. Patrick Dorgu earned plaudits across the board for his goal and assist, while Amad Diallo and young Ethan Williams highlighted the squad’s attacking depth. As a pre‑season encounter, it may lack competitive intensity, but tactically and technically United appeared sharper, fitter and more cohesive, offering a welcome tone of optimism ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Talking Points

Rasmus Højlund gave Manchester United fans a timely reminder of his value with a sharp, all-action performance in their 4–1 victory over Bournemouth, just days after speculation intensified over the club’s interest in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško. The Danish forward opened the scoring with a well-taken header and led the line with strength and purpose, linking well with Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount in behind. Højlund’s ability to combine physical presence with technical intelligence was on full display, a clear message to both manager Ruben Amorim and the fanbase that he’s ready to cement his place as United’s number nine heading into the new campaign.

One of the biggest positives was the performance of January signing Patrick Dorgu. The 20-year-old full-back not only provided the assist for Højlund’s opener but also added a goal of his own with a composed finish in the 25th minute. His pace, awareness, and attacking intent on the left flank gave Bournemouth problems throughout, while his defensive work was equally assured. Dorgu looked remarkably comfortable, a promising sign that United may have a long-term solution in an area that’s lacked consistency in recent years.

Beyond individual displays, what stood out most was the coherence and sharpness of United’s overall performance, traits often missing during last season’s turbulent campaign. Amorim’s side played with intensity in and out of possession, pressing high in spells despite the stormy conditions in Chicago, and showing clear tactical discipline in their shape. Pre-season caveats apply, but the early signs suggest United are evolving into a more fluid and balanced unit under Amorim’s guidance.