Manchester United have confirmed that they will begin their pre-season with a visit to South Africa next month.

The tour will begin on July 18 when they will face AmaZulu FC, followed by a match against Ajax Cape Town on July 21.

United chief executive David Gill told the club's official website: "The training camp and matches in South Africa will be an important part of our preparations for the 2012-13 season and an excellent chance to renew our acquaintance with our loyal and enthusiastic fans in South Africa.

"Everyone has fond memories of the visits there in 2006 and 2008 and, of course, of the exceptional organisation for the 2010 Fifa World Cup."

The opening match of the tour will take place in the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Mandela Day.