Manchester United announced a friendly match against Real Betis during its World Cup break. The Red Devils will play Betis on Saturday, Dec. 10. They also previously confirmed a matchup with Cadiz CF for Wednesday, Dec. 7. United’s winter break will be based in the Spanish city of Cadiz.
“We’re pleased to have lined up another match against high-quality local opposition during our stay in southern Spain,” claimed football director John Murtough.
“These matches will help ensure that our whole squad is prepared for the resumption of club football after the World Cup, as we look to maintain our positive momentum into the second half of the season.”
The two LaLiga sides are only about a two-hour drive apart from each other. Betis finished fifth in the Spanish table last season and are currently playing in the Europa League. Cadiz, on the other hand, narrowly avoided relegation following the 2021/22 campaign.
Manchester United among busy teams during World Cup
As the upcoming World Cup is set to take place in November and December, clubs around the globe are organizing winter training camps. Only a select group of players will be attending the tournament in Qatar. This means that teams are finding ways to keep other players fit while the World Cup carries on.
“It’s a strange season,” stated ten Hag. “It’s not like usual as we have a World Cup but also players will stay behind.”
“We have to train them during those six weeks and we have to give them the right program so they stay in the right fitness levels, but also they stay in the right shape and also in the team style.”
Ten Hag will take his team to Spain soon after their final Premier League match on Sunday, November 13th. The Red Devils do not need to be ready for another league fixture until Tuesday, December 27th.
Tickets for both winter friendlies can be purchased on Manchester United’s official website.
PHOTO: IMAGO / PA Images
