Manchester United and Fiorentina delivered a lively and dramatic pre-season finale at Old Trafford on August 9, 2025, as both sides played out a 1-1 draw in regulation before United edged a 5-4 victory on penalties to claim the Snapdragon Cup. The match, which served as the last tune-up before the start of the 2025-26 Premier League season, offered fans a taste of competitive football, fresh faces, and emotional returns.
From the outset, the fixture carried extra weight for both clubs. United entered the contest fresh off their triumph in the 2025 Premier League Summer Series in the United States, eager to add another piece of silverware to their growing collection. Fiorentina, meanwhile, relished the opportunity to test themselves against top-tier English opposition and showcase their summer signings. The Snapdragon Cup, up for grabs, added a competitive edge to what is usually a relaxed pre-season affair.
Kick-off arrived at 7:45 am ET (4:45 am PT) in the United States, with fans worldwide tuning in via MUTV and streaming platforms. For those watching abroad, using a VPN was recommended to bypass regional restrictions and catch every moment live from Greater Manchester.
The match began with an emotional moment, as David De Gea – now donning Fiorentina colors – was honored by Manchester United ahead of kick-off. De Gea, who guarded the United net from 2011 to 2023, shared a warm embrace and a commemorative photo with Bruno Fernandes, much to the delight of the Old Trafford faithful. According to official pre-match reports, "David De Gea was honoured by Manchester United before kick-off."
On the pitch, both managers opted for a blend of experience and new arrivals. United’s starting lineup featured Bryan Mbeumo, who impressed on his debut against Everton and was expected to start in attack alongside Matheus Cunha and Bruno Fernandes. Injured trio Andre Onana, Joshua Zirkzee, and Noussair Mazraoui were in line to return, though Lisandro Martinez remained sidelined with a knee injury. Mason Mount, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw were all contenders for the starting eleven, while Rasmus Hojlund’s involvement remained uncertain amid ongoing transfer speculation. As for Benjamin Sesko, his inclusion was one of the match’s talking points, given he had just completed his medical the day prior.
Fiorentina, managed by Stefano Pioli, rotated their squad to give valuable minutes to new signings Simon Sohm, Nicolo Fagioili, and Albert Gudmundsson. Up front, Moise Kean led the line, aiming to make his mark in a high-profile friendly. The Italian side’s intent was clear: test their mettle and integrate newcomers against a formidable opponent.
The early exchanges saw both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Fiorentina who struck first. In the first half, Simon Sohm, one of the Viola’s newest recruits, capitalized on a defensive lapse. After a well-delivered corner from Albert Gudmundsson wasn’t cleared, Sohm pounced with a crisp, first-time finish to put the visitors ahead. The move highlighted Fiorentina’s set-piece prowess and Sohm’s composure under pressure.
United, undeterred by the setback, pressed forward in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off before halftime, though fortune played a role. A corner into the Fiorentina box led to a scramble, and Robin Gosens, under pressure from United defender Leny Yoro, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. The own goal leveled the score at 1-1, setting the stage for an intriguing second half.
The match’s tempo remained high after the interval, but clear-cut chances proved elusive. The most notable moment came when United introduced Benjamin Sesko at halftime, giving supporters a first look at the highly anticipated signing. The Slovenian striker’s movement and energy injected fresh impetus into the Red Devils’ attack, though Fiorentina’s defense held firm.
As the clock ticked down, both managers made further substitutions, offering valuable minutes to squad players and assessing tactical options ahead of the new season. Despite some promising build-up play from both sides, neither could find a breakthrough, and the contest ended 1-1 after ninety minutes.
With the Snapdragon Cup on the line, a friendly penalty shoot-out followed. Fiorentina took the first kick, with Moise Kean confidently converting to put the Italians ahead. United captain Bruno Fernandes responded in kind, keeping the shoot-out level. Jacobo Fazzini and Matheus Cunha both scored, making it 2-2. Abdelhamid Sabiri and Diogo Dalot kept their nerve for 3-3, before Cher Ndour and Amad Diallo made it 4-4.
The tension mounted as the shoot-out reached its climax. Fiorentina’s Fabiano Parisi stepped up but saw his effort brilliantly saved by United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. That opened the door for England international Kobbie Mainoo, who coolly slotted home the decisive penalty to seal a 5-4 shoot-out victory for Manchester United.
The result capped a memorable afternoon for the home side, who lifted the Snapdragon Cup in front of their supporters. While the official scoreline will read 1-1 after regular time, United’s prowess from the spot ensured their pre-season ended on a winning note.
Beyond the result, the match offered plenty of storylines. The return of David De Gea to Old Trafford was met with warmth and respect, a testament to his contributions during more than a decade with the club. The debuts of Simon Sohm and Benjamin Sesko provided a glimpse into the future for both Fiorentina and United, while the performances of established stars like Bruno Fernandes and Moise Kean underscored their continued importance.
For United manager Ruben Amorim, the match served as a valuable opportunity to assess his squad’s readiness ahead of the Premier League opener. With the likes of Onana, Zirkzee, and Mazraoui returning from injury, and new signings bedding in, the Red Devils appear poised for a strong campaign. As for Fiorentina, Stefano Pioli will take heart from his team’s organization and spirit, particularly given the promising displays from his summer acquisitions.
As the curtain falls on pre-season, both clubs can reflect on a fiercely contested encounter that mixed nostalgia, anticipation, and competitive fire. With the Snapdragon Cup secured and key players hitting form, Manchester United head into the new season with momentum and optimism, while Fiorentina will look to build on the positives from their spirited display at Old Trafford.
