United coach hails “good and worthwhile” Ireland escape as catalyst for goalkeepers’ run-in charge

Manchester United goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson has detailed how the club’s Ireland training camp can elevate the shot-stoppers as the season enters its decisive stretch. Ireland getaway United spent the week in Dublin, Ireland, taking part in an intensive four-day training camp ahead of their final seven games of the 2025/26 season. The Red Devils are on the cusp of sealing a sensational return to the Champions League and the training camp was organised to not only ensure match sharpness after a huge break from the last outing, but also to enhance team spirit and togetherness. Steve Holland stressed the importance of the trip, with his sentiments being echoed by fellow coach Jonny Evans. Mawson also spoke to club media and explained what the escape has meant for the goalkeepers, breaking down how it could ignite them for the final push of the campaign. Mawson’s verdict Mawson said about Thursday’s training in wet conditions, “It was really good. The weather came, acclimatising us ready for our return to Manchester, but it’s been a real worthwhile three days, getting the group back together.” “Since the last game, a lot has happened. The players go off for the international break, and to get everyone back fit and then to come out here for three days, change of scenery and get everyone back together, it’s been a really good and worthwhile trip.” “Usually on a day-to-day [basis] we’re working individually from the group, with the smaller numbers it allows us to build those relationships, but it’s heightened a little bit more when you come away from the training ground because you’re spending a little bit of social time together as well.” He continued, “When you’re out here, it forges the links, builds the relationships, not just between goalkeepers but with the whole team and the staff as well.” “I’m really fortunate, it’s a fantastic working group, lots of different qualities, lots of different characters but the work ethic on a daily basis, the implementation of the session design and practices, and the willingness to try new things [makes me feel like] I’m very fortunate to be able to work with this group.” Mawson has been at United since 2019 when he joined from Burnley. He has worked with different managers and is now relishing from combining efforts with Michael Carrick and his assistants. “Ultimately a lot of the goalkeeping practices, when you strip it all back, you’re working on the same fundamentals. It’s just how you present it differently to keep them stimulated and engaged with the practices.” “I’ve been really fortunate in my time here to work under some really good goalkeeping coaches and some good managers in my own development journey as a coach. You’re taking little bits of different coaches’ ideas to build your own practices and identity as a coach.” “[I’m] always learning. [There is a] different voice [now] at the top from the manager, some really good people first and foremost within the staff, and some good football people that are really knowledgeable.” “For my own personal development, to be able to work closely and sit round a table in an office or sit round a meal table to listen [helps me to] continue learning myself.” United are next in action on Monday when they welcome Leeds United to Old Trafford. Kick-off is at 20:00 GMT. Featured image Craig Mawson via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!