The tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July, with 12 senior players expected to be away on international duty. That absence should give United’s younger players more training time alongside established professionals and more opportunities to feature across the six-game schedule.
Gabriel’s inclusion would underline his standing at Carrington, although a place on the tour would not guarantee a first-team breakthrough. Lacey and Fletcher have already been given senior minutes, and the European programme offers another test of their readiness.
United will remain in Europe, reducing the additional workload associated with long-distance travel. Their schedule is:
The range of opposition should provide a meaningful examination for academy players, from domestic tests against Wrexham and Leeds to high-level meetings with Atlético, PSG and Milan.
United’s players usually return in the first week of July for fitness testing, but those involved at the World Cup are expected to receive additional time off after their international commitments. That will leave the squad uneven during the opening stages of preparation.
Ederson was reportedly expected to complete his move in time for pre-season, but his late call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad has pushed back that timeline. His delayed availability could increase the importance of the existing goalkeeping options during the early fixtures.
The tour will therefore be a test of both recruitment planning and academy depth. United’s first week of July, Gabriel’s involvement and the return dates of their World Cup players will define the next phase of preparation.