The report says Vitek has been United’s choice in their pre-season matches so far. That gives the young goalkeeper another chance to build his case, but also leaves the club waiting to assess how Darlow fits into the group once he is available.
United have also taken Dermot Mee, Tom Heaton and Altay Bayındır on the trip, according to the report. The options offer cover for the friendly, though Darlow’s absence removes the chance to evaluate the summer arrival in match conditions.
The report says Darlow joined after a regular season with Leeds United, making 24 appearances in all competitions and keeping five Premier League clean sheets. Those figures point to a goalkeeper arriving with recent senior experience, even if his immediate role at United remains unclear.
His reported operation changes the timing, not necessarily the longer-term competition for places. United brought him in to reinforce their goalkeeping group, but with no return date reported, Vitek and the other available keepers have an opening to make an impression during the tour.
The Atlético Madrid friendly is now the next test for United’s goalkeeping options. The key storyline after that will be whether Darlow can return to training in time to challenge for a place before the competitive season begins.