'Normal to have to build your confidence' - Dalot

Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has underscored the psychological boost derived from early pre-season victories, asserting that these initial successes are crucial for "building confidence" ahead of the demanding campaign. His comments follow the Red Devils' hard-fought 2-1 triumph over fellow Premier League side West Ham United in their opening fixture of the Premier League Summer Series, held in the United States on Saturday. The victory, secured by a brace from influential captain Bruno Fernandes, not only marked a positive start on American soil but also provided a vital shot of self-belief for a squad eager to make a strong impression in the upcoming season.

Dalot’s insight highlights a fundamental truth of professional football: even in exhibition matches, the winning habit is invaluable. For a team like Manchester United, striving to reclaim their position at the pinnacle of English football, every opportunity to foster a winning mentality is seized upon. The Portuguese full-back’s emphasis on confidence building reflects the understanding that technical prowess alone is insufficient; a belief in one’s collective ability is paramount. Fernandes's two goals against a resilient West Ham side serve as a perfect example of key players stepping up, providing tangible evidence that the tactical work on the training ground is beginning to bear fruit, and reinforcing the squad's conviction in their attacking capabilities.

Crucially, this pre-season period marks a significant milestone for manager Ruben Amorim. Having arrived at Old Trafford in November, the Portuguese tactician inherited a squad mid-season, necessitating a reactive approach to immediate challenges rather than a proactive implementation of his long-term vision. This summer represents his first full pre-season with the squad, an invaluable window for him to fully embed his tactical philosophy, enhance physical conditioning, and foster deeper team cohesion without the pressure of competitive fixtures. The early wins, therefore, are more than just results; they are early validations of Amorim's methods and a tangible sign that the players are adapting well to his demands, providing a solid foundation upon which to build.

The Premier League Summer Series itself offers a more competitive pre-season environment than traditional friendlies, pitting top-flight English teams against each other. This elevates the stakes, providing a more realistic test of match fitness, tactical discipline, and individual performance. For Manchester United, navigating these games successfully not only boosts morale but also allows Amorim to assess his squad's depth and versatility under a degree of pressure, identifying areas for improvement before the real action begins. The tour also serves as a critical opportunity to connect with a passionate global fanbase, further strengthening the club's identity and reach.

As Manchester United continue their preparations across the Atlantic, Dalot's words resonate strongly. The path to success in the Premier League and other competitions is long and arduous, fraught with challenges. However, by meticulously building confidence through every training session and every positive result, the Red Devils are laying down the necessary psychological and tactical groundwork. This foundational work in the United States could prove instrumental in shaping their destiny when the competitive fixtures commence, ensuring they are mentally and physically primed for the battles ahead.