A Manchester United striker is racing to be fit for the opening game of the Premier League season, while a new Chelsea manager takes charge of his first friendly in Australia. Pre-season friendlies are more than just warm-up matches; they are a crucial period for players to build fitness, for managers to test tactics, and for clubs to integrate new signings before the real action begins.
Pre-season friendlies are exhibition matches played by professional football clubs in the weeks before the competitive season starts. Teams typically tour abroad or play local opponents to build match sharpness and generate revenue. For Premier League clubs, the pre-season schedule often includes a mix of training camps and friendlies against teams from different leagues. This year, Manchester United have played against Wrexham and Rosenborg, and have upcoming games against Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Leeds United. Chelsea are currently in Australia, facing Western Sydney Wanderers in what is Xabi Alonso's first match as Blues manager.
“Why Premier League clubs play pre-season friendlies, with updates on Benjamin Sesko's injury and Chelsea's tour.”
The tradition of pre-season friendlies dates back over a century, but their modern importance has grown with the demands of elite football. Clubs use them to gradually increase players' workloads, minimise injury risk, and fine-tune formations. For new managers like Alonso, they are an early chance to implement their style. For players returning from injury, they are a pathway back to full fitness. Benjamin Sesko, Manchester United's striker, missed early friendlies due to a shin injury he aggravated in May. He has been following a rehabilitation programme and is on course to be fit for the Premier League opener against Hull City on August 22. His absence has given Joshua Zirkzee a chance to start, though the Dutchman is a squad player and may be sold.
For UK readers, pre-season friendlies offer the first glimpse of how their club might perform in the new season. They can reveal which young players are pushing for a first-team spot, how new signings are settling in, and whether key players are recovering from injuries. The matches also generate transfer speculation, as players like Zirkzee are linked with moves away. Additionally, clubs often engage fans with quizzes and content, such as the BBC's daily "Who am I?" game, which tests knowledge of Premier League players.
Q: When does the Premier League season start? The 2026-27 Premier League season begins on August 22, with Manchester United hosting Hull City. Other clubs will have their own opening fixtures at the same weekend.
Q: Why do some players miss pre-season friendlies? Players may miss friendlies due to injuries, as with Benjamin Sesko's shin problem, or because they are given extra rest after international tournaments. Clubs manage playing time carefully to avoid burnout before the season starts.
Q: What is the point of clubs touring abroad for friendlies? Tours help clubs build their global brand, connect with overseas fans, and generate commercial revenue. They also allow players to bond in a different environment while facing unfamiliar opponents.
What happens next: Manchester United will face Atletico Madrid on July 31, then PSG on August 8, before their final pre-season friendly against Leeds on August 12. Chelsea continue their tour, and all Premier League clubs will finalise their squads as the transfer window closes in late August. Benjamin Sesko is expected to be available for the opening weekend, but his minutes may be managed initially.