Manchester United youngster Tyler Fletcher has been called up into the Scotland World Cup squad.
Tyler Fletcher seized his opportunity for Scotland in their pre-tournament friendly. He impressed manager Steve Clarke enough to land a shock place in their final squad.
Fletcher was called up following an injury to Billy Gilmour. He played 45 minutes in their friendly against Curacao.
Remarkably, Fletcher has yet to start a game for Manchester United, playing in only two brief substitute appearances.
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When Tyler Fletcher could report for pre-season
Tyler Fletcher’s call-up to Scotland’s World Cup squad means Michael Carrick might be without the youngster for the start of pre-season.
Midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte are also at the tournament, while Casemiro’s contract expires at the end of June.
Fletcher’s return date to Manchester United depends on Scotland’s progression.
If Scotland are eliminated at the group stage…
Scotland are in a World Cup group with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti. Their final group game is on June 24.
All international players are expected to have a two-week break following the World Cup, per FIFA recommendations.
This would actually line Tyler Fletcher up to return to Carrington on around July 8. While yet to be confirmed, we project United’s players will begin pre-season on Monday July 6.
Fletcher’s pre-season would then be pretty much the same as his teammates and he would be in contention to play in United’s opener against Wrexham in Finland on July 17.
But if Scotland reach the knockout stages, which may only require a third-placed finish in their group – Fletcher’s return date gets pushed back.
What do YOU think of Manchester United’s pre-season schedule for 2026?
If Scotland are eliminated in the knockouts…
If Scotland reach the Round of 32, they would likely play on June 30. This would push Tyler Fletcher’s return date to Manchester United to July 15.
It is then most likely that Fletcher would miss out on Manchester United’s pre-season opener, and be given extra time to get up to speed.
In a scenario where Scotland reach the quarter-finals, Fletcher would play on either July 4 or July 5. This would mean he would not return to United until July 20.
Fletcher’s first pre-season game could then be the fixture against Atletico Madrid on August 1.
We will see how Fletcher fares at the tournament. It will be a success if he even plays. He will return to United as a stronger player – no matter when.
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