Manchester United capped off their US summer tour with a 2-2 draw against Everton, sealing the Premier League Summer Series despite a shaky defensive showing in Atlanta.
It wasn’t the perfect ending, but United got the job done. Two leads were blown in the heat of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, yet Ruben Amorim’s men return home unbeaten from three games.
Bruno Fernandes struck first from the spot after Amad was brought down by James Tarkowski. The Everton defender protested the decision, but Fernandes calmly converted.
Everton found their rhythm late in the half. Iliman Ndiaye met a perfect Idrissa Gueye cross at the far post after Manuel Ugarte was caught in possession.
Mason Mount restored United’s lead in the 69th minute. The former Chelsea man finished with a curled effort after combining well with Fernandes.
But disaster followed soon after. Amad’s attempted clearance bounced off Ayden Heaven and wrong-footed Altay Bayindir for an unfortunate own goal.
Despite the setback, United topped the mini-tournament following earlier wins over West Ham and Bournemouth. Amorim’s team now return to Old Trafford to face Fiorentina before the season opener against Arsenal.
The game offered glimpses of promise. Bryan Mbeumo made his debut, playing the first 45 minutes in a front three with Fernandes and Matheus Cunha. The trio showed flashes of creativity.
Yet familiar flaws remain. Bayindir struggled again in goal and looked uncertain dealing with set pieces. Everton had early chances, including one where Jake O’Brien hit the post with an open goal.
Everton, led by David Moyes, showed grit after two losses on tour. But Moyes admitted he needs “nine or ten” new players before the transfer window shuts.
United’s midfield was often overrun. Without Casemiro, Everton bossed the center of the park. Gueye in particular stood out with sharp distribution and defensive cover.
The mood was mixed at full-time. United fans celebrated lifting the Summer Series, but concerns linger about readiness for their season opener against Arsenal.
