Manchester United continued our annual tradition of visiting children’s hospitals across Greater Manchester at Christmas time.
In a special visit, the men’s first-team squad visited patients and staff at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, The Christie Palatine Treatment Centre and Francis House Children’s Hospice.
Mason Mount, Leny Yoro, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Tyler Fredricson and Manuel Ugarte spent the afternoon at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital handing out gifts, playing games and chatting with patients and their families.
At the same time, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs De Ligt, Tyrell Malacia and Dermot Mee shared special moments with patients at the largest single-site cancer centre in Europe, The Christie. Players brought festive cheer to teenagers and young adults, surprising them with gifts before thanking staff for their tireless efforts.
Meanwhile, Francis House Children’s Hospice service users were visited by goalkeepers Senne Lammens and Tom Heaton, delighting children and families by handing out an array of United-themed presents, including scarves, hats and calendars.
Ahead of the visits, the squad also came together to buy PlayStations for all three hospitals, as an additional gesture to help bring joy to patients experiencing a difficult time.
On his first trip to the hospitals since joining the club, Leny Yoro said: “It's been great to spend some time with the kids this afternoon. They were really happy that we could come here today to speak with them, play with them and give out some gifts.
”When you are a Manchester United player, you have a big responsibility and can have a big impact. Seeing the kids today brings a lot of joy to us too and also makes you remember that life is not easy for everyone - you have to keep that in your mind. It's been great to spread some happiness and to see them smile.”
“It's a special day for us all. It's important that we show our support as a club at this time of year as it can be really difficult for those spending Christmas in hospital. We come in to try and lift their spirits, give out some presents and spend some time with them. As I say, it's super important to us.”
Senne also enjoyed spending time with fans at Francis House:
“It’s really nice to see all the happy faces that we are here. It’s a small thing that we can do for them, but for them it’s a big deal. So it’s nice to give back because we also have a lot of support from them and it’s been an honour to be here.”
“It was a privilege to meet Senne and Tom. I’ve watched Manchester United from being a little boy so it means a lot. It feels like an early Christmas present at this time of year. They gave us a bag with some gifts in and I’m looking forward to opening it!”
The remainder of the men’s squad attended the annual Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association Christmas lunch at Old Trafford, signing shirts, taking pictures and spending time with the loyal United fans in attendance.
Manchester United Foundation leads the Christmas visits on behalf of the club each year, delivering over 1,500 Manchester United-themed gifts for staff and patients each year.