Manchester United and Chelsea have officially kicked off preparations for the 2026/27 season, with both Premier League giants returning to training as new signings and fresh managerial ideas take center stage.
At Carrington, Manchester United’s players were put through their first pre-season drills under head coach Michael Carrick, with new arrivals Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško among the standout faces. The club shared images and videos of high-intensity fitness sessions as the squad began building towards their opening pre-season fixtures. United are scheduled to begin their friendly program on July 18 before turning their attention to the new Premier League campaign.
Meanwhile, Chelsea returned to Cobham for the first time under new manager Xabi Alonso, who officially oversaw his maiden training session after taking charge this summer. Players including Nicolas Jackson, Noni Madueke and other first-team stars were put through agility, tactical and conditioning drills as Alonso began implementing his philosophy ahead of the new season. Chelsea’s pre-season schedule will continue throughout July before the Blues play their first major friendly later this month.
Both clubs are using the pre-season period to integrate new signings, improve match fitness and prepare for the 2026/27 Premier League season, which begins in late August. Fans have welcomed the return of club football, with training clips from both teams generating excitement across social media as anticipation builds for the new campaign.
