Højlund Shines as Manchester United Outclass Bournemouth in Chicago

Rasmus Højlund gave manager Ruben Amorim a timely reminder of his quality by scoring in Manchester United’s commanding 4–1 victory over Bournemouth at Soldier Field, continuing their unbeaten preseason tour in the United States.

The Danish striker opened the scoring with a deft header just eight minutes into the match, capitalizing on an excellent cross from Patrick Dorgu. His performance served as a significant statement, especially with United ramping up their search for a new centre-forward. The club is currently in advanced talks with RB Leipzig for Benjamin Sesko, who is valued at over €80 million, and also maintains interest in an unnamed Aston Villa attacker.

Despite speculation surrounding his future, following a modest Premier League campaign last season with only four goals and interest from Napoli and Juventus, Højlund has made clear his intention to stay at Old Trafford. His goal against Bournemouth was another step in solidifying his place in Amorim’s plans.

Dorgu, who impressed throughout, doubled United’s lead in the 25th minute. Mason Mount quickly spotted the wing-back’s run and released him with a clever free-kick over the top. Dorgu finished with a low strike that Bournemouth’s new signing, former Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, will feel he should have done better with.

In heavy rain that swept through Chicago and forced many fans to seek cover, United continued their dominance after the break. In the 53rd minute, Amad Diallo swept home a third from inside the box. The goal may have nicked off Højlund’s foot on its way in, prompting both players to celebrate together.

While United’s attacking display impressed, the goalkeeping situation remains uncertain ahead of the season opener against Arsenal. With André Onana sidelined by a hamstring injury, veteran Tom Heaton was handed a start and staked his claim with a series of fine saves. The 39-year-old denied Dango Ouattara in the first half and made an excellent stop with his feet to prevent Antoine Semenyo from scoring in the second.

Amorim made wholesale changes after the hour mark, retaining only Heaton on the pitch. One of the substitutes, 19-year-old Ethan Williams, added a fourth goal with a composed finish into the bottom corner.

United looked set to keep a clean sheet, but in the final minute, Matthijs De Ligt accidentally deflected David Brooks’ cross into his own net. Despite the late blemish, it was an encouraging performance for Amorim’s side as they gear up for the new campaign.

Wirtz Opens Liverpool Account in Comeback Victory Over Yokohama

Florian Wirtz netted his first goal for Liverpool as the Premier League champions came from behind to defeat Yokohama F. Marinos 3–1 in a preseason friendly at Nissan Stadium in Japan.

There were initial doubts over the match proceeding following a tsunami warning triggered by an 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia’s eastern coast. However, authorities confirmed it was safe, allowing the game to go ahead as planned.

After a goalless first half in which Hugo Ekitike a £69 million signing from Eintracht Frankfurt nearly scored with a backheel and Cody Gakpo struck the post, it was the hosts who struck first. Asahi Uenaka finished off a slick move early in the second half to give Yokohama the lead.

Liverpool responded quickly. Mohamed Salah crafted a chance down the right before laying it off for Wirtz, who made no mistake from close range. Moments later, 18-year-old Trey Nyoni put the Reds in front with an acrobatic finish after a precise cross from Jeremie Frimpong.

Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha sealed the victory with a superb solo effort three minutes before full-time, capping off a dominant second-half display from Arne Slot’s men.

In goal, Giorgi Mamardashvili—filling in for Alisson Becker, who returned to Brazil for personal reasons—made a notable first-half save to keep out Jun Amano and ensured Liverpool stayed in contention before their comeback.

The win marks a strong end to Liverpool’s Far East tour, which had started with a 4–2 defeat to AC Milan. The squad will now return to Anfield, where they are set to host Athletic Club in a double-header of preseason fixtures on August 4.