Manchester United vs Fiorentina: De Gea's Old Trafford Return and How to Watch the Pre-Season Clash

Manchester United vs Fiorentina: De Gea's Old Trafford Return and How to Watch the Pre-Season Clash

David De Gea Returns to Old Trafford for Manchester United vs Fiorentina

This summer's final pre-season fixture at Old Trafford holds more than just a tune-up for the new campaign. On Saturday, August 9, the story isn't just about tactics or fresh faces—it's about seeing Manchester United legend David De Gea walk back onto the pitch where he built his legacy. De Gea, who left the club in 2023 after over a decade between the posts, gets a hero's welcome with a special tribute from club captain Bruno Fernandes before kick-off. Expect emotion, nostalgia—and a few teary fans in the stands.

The match starts at 7:45 am ET, early for some, but fans won't want to miss it. De Gea's name will be cheered once more as he receives a commemorative award from Bruno, a moment sure to trend across social media. But as much as supporters look back, there's a real buzz about what lies ahead for United.

All Eyes on United's New Signings and Amorim's Fresh Start

Off the pitch, it's been a whirlwind of activity. Ruben Amorim, United's new manager, hasn't wasted a second. The board has backed him heavily in the transfer market, sealing deals for forwards Matheus Cunha, Diego Leon, and Bryan Mbeumo, plus the late but much-hyped arrival of Benjamin Sesko—whose signing only dropped two hours before game time. With so many changes up front, fans are eager to see if this revamped attack will gel in time for the real tests.

This isn't just a friendly, after all. The match is part of the Snapdragon Cup, giving both squads something to fight for. Manchester United’s pre-season form looks sharp. They picked up wins over West Ham and Bournemouth and a draw against Everton in the US Summer Series. That string of results is fueling confidence among supporters who are already eyeing the Premier League opener against Arsenal on August 10.

For Fiorentina, this game is about fixing cracks before their Serie A season begins. Their English pre-season tour hasn't brought a win yet—drawing against Nottingham Forest, losing to Leicester City—so they arrive eager to leave a stronger mark. Players and staff know Old Trafford is no easy place to find your groove, but motivation runs high when facing a club of United’s stature.

• Kick-off: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 7:45 am ET
• Location: Old Trafford, Manchester
• Broadcast: Exclusive coverage on MUTV worldwide
• Competitive stakes: Snapdragon Cup

Wondering how to catch the action? MUTV is the only place showing the game live, letting fans watch from anywhere with a subscription. That means supporters far beyond Manchester will soak up every minute—pre-match tributes, new signings on the pitch, and all the drama that comes with a big summer send-off.

As the Premier League countdown ticks away, there’s no ignoring the energy around Old Trafford. From De Gea’s heartfelt tribute to new talent looking to impress, and Fiorentina pushing to end their pre-season on a high—it’s set to be more than just another friendly on the football calendar.