Manchester United put on a show in the Premier League Summer Series as they dismantled Bournemouth 4-1 at Soldier Field, Chicago. The Red Devils, still in the midst of their pre-season tour of the United States, treated their travelling fans to a fluid, dominant performance marked by Rasmus Højlund’s clinical finishing and the sparkling contributions of United’s next generation of stars.
Ruben Amorim men looked sharp and composed, offering a glimpse of what could be a promising 2025/26 campaign if their young talents continue to rise to the occasion and their senior stars find consistency. The four-goal salvo against fellow Premier League outfit Bournemouth felt like more than just another preseason friendly—it was a statement of intent.
A fast start in the Windy City
From the opening whistle, Manchester United set the tone with high pressing and quick ball movement. Amorim deployed a balanced XI blending experience with youth, giving fans a look at some of the academy prospects hoping to break through this season. The early passages of play saw United pinning Bournemouth deep in their own half for extended periods of the game, with Mason Mount and Amad Diallo stretching the pitch on the wings and Rasmus Højlund leading the line with purpose.
United’s opener came in the 8th minute after a slick passing sequence through midfield. Patrick Dorgu, fresh from an impressive preseason, spotted Højlund’s run behind the Cherries’ backline and dinked a perfect ball. The Danish striker, who has been under pressure to improve his finishing, made no mistake this time, feather headed the ball past Bournemouth’s keeper to make it 1-0. The goal seemed to lift the entire side’s confidence, and the pace of United’s play only increased from there.
Youngsters take center stage
If Højlund’s opener showcased the established first-teamers, the following goals underlined just how rich United’s academy talent pool is. Amorim introduced the youngsters’ cameo roles to Toby Collyer, Ethan Williams and Chido Obi-Martin, who wasted no time impressing the Chicago crowd.
United’s second goal was a testament to the bravery and creativity of youth. Mount was fouled in middle of the park, his sharp-witted pass over the top found Dorgu who controlled expertly who then muscled off Phillip Billing and send a firm strike into the bottom corner for his first senior preseason goal. The celebration said it all—a beaming 20-year-old mobbed by teammates, savoring a dream moment on American soil.
The third goal came eight minutes into the second half, this time the result of high intensity pressing led by Bruno Fernandes and Mount. Winning the ball deep in Bournemouth’s half, Casemiro slipped a pass to Amad, who curled a beautiful effort into the far corner. At 3-0, United’s travelling supporters were in full voice, chanting the names of their young heroes while Amorim applauded their fearlessness on the touchline.
Manchester United was ruthless as they kept the tempo high and their feet firmly on the gas. Deigo Leon, the Paraguayan teenager, made a darting run from midfield, leaving a few players in his shadow. However, before he could pull the trigger or make a pass, he fumbled and fell inside the box. Luckily, the ball fell kindly to Ethan Williams who was full tilt beside him. He dropped his shoulders and dribbled to his right, then blasted home to ease United away in the pouring rain to make it 4-0
Bournemouth’s brief response
Bournemouth did pull one back late in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. A hopeful long ball was misjudged by Kobie Mainoo, allowing David Brooks to race through and whip a cross, which was turned past goalkeeper Tom Heaton by his own defender Matthijs de Ligt. The goal reminded United of the concentration levels required, even in a preseason match, and offered the Cherries a small consolation.
Ruben Amorim’s tactical blueprint on display
This performance wasn’t just about the scoreline—it was about the structure and intent behind it. Amorim’s philosophy was evident: aggressive pressing, quick transitions, and a focus on controlled possession through midfield. The partnership between Amad and Mason Mount offered balance and energy, while Harry Maguire’s leadership at the back kept United organized despite a few shaky moments.
Notably, the Portuguese has clearly emphasized integrating young talent into his plans. The willingness to throw on players like Fredricson, Mantato, and Collyer in a high-profile preseason fixture speaks volumes about Amorim’s belief in their readiness. With a long, grueling season ahead, having these academy products pushing the first-team regulars can only be a positive.
Rasmus Højlund: Confidence boost ahead of the new season
One of the biggest takeaways from Chicago was Højlund’s performance. The Danish striker endured a mixed debut season at Old Trafford, showing flashes of brilliance but also going through dry spells in front of goal. With United reportedly still monitoring potential reinforcements in attack, this was a crucial outing for Højlund.
His goal was well-taken, but it was his all-round play that impressed most. His pressing forced turnovers, his link-up play created space for runners, and his confidence seemed to grow with every touch. If this preseason is a preview of what’s to come, Højlund could very well cement himself as United’s undisputed No.9 this campaign.
Chicago crowd gets a treat
Soldier Field was packed with United supporters, the majority dressed in red, chanting, and waving scarves throughout the game. The atmosphere felt more like a competitive fixture than a friendly, and the players responded accordingly. Fans were treated to exciting attacking football, moments of individual brilliance, and four goals to celebrate on a warm summer night.
The players acknowledged the support post-match, with Bruno and Mainoo taking time to sign autographs and pose for pictures, a sign of how much the connection between the club and its global fanbase matters during these tours.
What this win means for United’s preseason
Preseason results are rarely a true barometer of what’s to come, but performances can be telling. Against Bournemouth, Manchester United looked sharp, disciplined, and hungry—a stark contrast to some of the lethargic displays that marred the start of last season.
The blend of youth and experience worked seamlessly, the team played with a clear identity, and key players like Højlund and Mount looked ready to make significant leaps in their development. Amorim will know sterner tests await, but for now, his side is ticking the right boxes.
Final thoughts
A 4-1 win over Bournemouth in Chicago won’t win Manchester United any trophies, but it was precisely the kind of performance they needed on this U.S. tour. Goals from Højlund, Dorgu, Amad, and Williams showcased both established stars and rising talents, offering hope that the future is bright at Old Trafford.
With two more games left in the pre-season friendlies, United will look to maintain this momentum and fine-tune their tactics ahead of the new season. If the combination of youthful exuberance and clinical finishing continues, fans may just be witnessing the early stages of a Manchester United resurgence.