Manchester United have withdrawn from both the EFL Trophy and the National League Cup for the 2026-27 season.
The club’s decision stems from their return to the Uefa Youth League, following the senior team’s qualification for the Champions League.
It is understood by the Press Association that United are also planning to operate with a smaller professional development phase group of players next season.
This group, comprising those transitioning between the under-18s and under-21s, will benefit from an increased focus on individual player development.
Last season, United’s performance in the competitions they are now choosing not to play in saw them fail to progress beyond the group stage of the EFL Trophy, finishing third, and being knocked out of the National League Cup at the league stage.
While these two competitions accounted for 10 matches in the first half of last season, the Uefa Youth League, an under-19s competition, will guarantee United at least eight fixtures.
The club will, however, continue their participation in the Premier League International Cup, having reached the quarter-finals last season before their defeat by Real Madrid.
United are set to review their decision to opt out of the EFL Trophy and National League Cup ahead of the subsequent season.
It promises to be a huge season for United’s senior side, who finished the campaign strongly under Michael Carrick after a difficult first few months prior to Ruben Amorim leaving the club.
United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup at the earliest possible stage, losing to League Two Grimsby Two in the former competition, before being knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton.
However, they appeared to benefit from playing fewer games as they finished third in the Premier League behind champions Arsenal and Manchester City.
They will face a much busier schedule next season and may need a deeper squad to overcome this challenge.
United are yet to make any summer signings, but they are believed to be close to adding Atalanta midfielder Ederson to their squad, while they have also been linked with Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville following West Ham’s relegation.
