SNOREBOARD Inside Manchester United’s meager preseason improvements as stars are given specific sleep and eating intervals and advised on when to drink

Manchester United is leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for their tour of the USA, aiming to optimize player performance despite the challenges of transatlantic travel. Inspired by Sir David Brailsford’s philosophy of marginal gains from his time with British cycling, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s influence as a new part-owner is evident in the meticulous planning aimed at minimizing jet lag and ensuring peak performance for their upcoming match against Arsenal at SoFi Stadium.New signing Leny Yoro touches down in CaliforniaVictor Lindelof is facing increased competition this seasonAmad Diallo will hope to continue his riseChristian Eriksen looks in high spirits on the planeCasemiro did not end the season wellhttps://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/antony-manchester-united-departs-manchester-919417870.jpg?w=620Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay enjoy the flight

Key elements of their preparation include:

  1. Personalized Plans: Each player has been assigned a schedule that includes designated sleep and meal times tailored to their individual needs.

  2. Bespoke Nutrition: The team’s performance chef and nutrition staff have designed customized meals to support optimal physical condition during the tour.

  3. Hydration and Recovery: Players are following a strict hydration plan to prevent dehydration, while individually tailored compression garments aid in improving blood circulation and recovery.

  4. Training and Body Clock Adjustments: Training sessions are strategically scheduled to help players adjust their body clocks, considering exposure to light at specific times of the day.

These measures reflect a commitment to excellence reminiscent of Brailsford’s approach in cycling, where meticulous attention to detail in areas like nutrition, sleep quality, and recovery provided a competitive edge.Mason Mount needs to put his injury woes behind him

Off the pitch, Ratcliffe and Brailsford are driving significant changes at United, including a comprehensive review of club operations leading to staff restructuring and enhancements to facilities like the training ground and Old Trafford itself. These improvements underscore their ambition to elevate United’s performance across all aspects of the club.

However, there are immediate concerns for United, particularly in the full-back positions. Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, and Tyrell Malacia are absent from the tour, with Shaw and Dalot taking extended breaks after Euro 2024 participation. Shaw’s fitness remains a concern after limited recent play, while Dalot’s absence is notable given his consistency last season.

With Aaron Wan-Bissaka potentially on the way out, United faces a challenge in securing backup options for both left and right-back positions before the start of the new season.