How this iconic squad photo was taken

The players have to be directed a few millimetres to the left, or right, and while Ben is politely doing his ushering, Manuel Ugarte – also kitted out – pops his head in.

He’s quickly followed by Diogo Dalot, then Bruno Fernandes and all of a sudden the gym is filled with the men’s first team squad as they prepare for their own photo.

But there’s a twist, and, after months of careful planning and the alignment of busy schedules, club history is about to be made.

A couple more benches are mustered to make room for the men to come in, once the women are done, and pose for a United first – a joint squad picture.

Jake, our social media man, has given Matheus Cunha a GoPro camera and the Brazilian, always good value, shares a joke with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw before getting in position.

Ruben Amorim seeks out Skinner at the front and the pair share a warm handshake before sitting together.