A special Dream Day at Carrington

Manchester United’s men’s team made precious memories for young supporters with life-limiting illnesses, at Manchester United Foundation’s latest Dream Day.

Players including club captain Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy took time away from football to meet young fans with serious illnesses at Carrington.

The heartwarming event, which takes place twice a season, gives Reds from across the country the opportunity to visit the club’s Carrington training ground, watch United train and meet their heroes.

Youngsters aged between eight and 18 years old were among those attending what proved to be a very emotional day, beaming with joy as they chatted and posed for photos with their footballing idols.

Club captain Bruno Fernandes expressed how much it meant to the players to take part in days like this.

He said: “It is really important. We know how much this means to the kids to be here with us – even if it’s only for a little moment to make them happy, it means the world to us.

“I think as a player, we always have a responsibility to our fans, and if we can help in any way to make their day a little bit better, then why not?

“It’s always good to hear their stories and to do things that will make them happy, so I’m really pleased that today I’ve met them and that the kids have loved it.”

Amad also enjoyed meeting the fans: “It was really nice to see the young kids coming to the training ground today and enjoying themselves.

“It’s important to help people not only on the pitch, but also outside of the pitch, it always puts a smile on my face. It’s important to make sure they enjoy the day!”

Rasmus said: “It definitely puts a smile on my face [being here]; it’s always a pleasure to see them happy and excited when they visit. It’s important to show that we care, especially as a Manchester United player; I’ve really enjoyed it.”

Tom Heaton added: “I think it’s always a good reminder of our responsibilities as players, as a football club, and to be role models and show that you can bring so much joy to people’s lives.

“It’s a really important day and a really good day, one that we all take very seriously.”

Morgan, aged 14, couldn’t get enough of the once-in-a-lifetime experience: “It’s been fantastic. I’ve loved seeing all my favourite players and loved getting their signatures and photos.”

His dad, Paul, also expressed the importance of days like this: “It’s really important that Morgan can experience something like this; it’s not every day that you get this opportunity, especially when you’re obsessed with football.

“To meet the players, have a chat with them, get a picture – it’s fantastic for us as parents to watch, see and enjoy. It’s dreams that we would love to give the children that we can’t always give them.”

For more information about Dream Days and Manchester United Foundation please visit www.mufoundation.org.

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