Saha: It’s important to be connected

The Reds are set to visit Thailand and Australia in July as preparations for the 2022/23 campaign continue with our first trip beyond Europe since travel was restricted by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

United will face Liverpool in Bangkok on 12 July, before games against Melbourne Victory and Crystal Palace at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and then Aston Villa in Perth. 

Pre-season friendlies against La Liga sides Atletico Madrid, in Norway, and Rayo Vallecano at Old Trafford, both on the final weekend of the month, are also on the calendar. Our Premier League campaign will then begin on Sunday 7 August.

Saha has travelled the globe with United in the past, both as a player and an ambassador more recently, and is happy that some of our fans further afield will have the opportunity to see the team close up again this summer during Tour 2022.

“It’s always important to be connected with the fans,” Louis told us, after his appearance at last month’s Legends of the North match.

“Some of those guys in Australia, in Asia when we go there, sometimes they struggle to come to Old Trafford.

“So, to have those connections, sometimes it brings new opportunities. It’s brilliant and I think it’s very important.”

The tour will also be the first chance that our fans across the globe will get to see Erik ten Hag in action as United’s new manager. 

Saha is also eager to observe what impact the Dutchman can have at Old Trafford.

“I’m pleased but we will see in three or four months what is going to happen. 

“A lot of changes will occur during the transfer market, I’m sure that we may be able to understand what he can see [in the squad] from the first few interviews. 

“We’re really looking forward to seeing the way he builds up young players too.”

Remember, you can watch every game from Tour 2022, plus the friendlies with Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano, live on MUTV.