Manchester United secured their initial victory of the pre-season, defeating Rosenborg 5-0 in Trondheim. This match followed a previous loss to Wrexham six days prior, with Michael Carrick’s side demonstrating a notable performance that included several strong individual displays and an evolution in their playing style under the new permanent manager.
The influence of Carrington’s youth academy was evident, with several young players making an impact. However, questions persist regarding the role of one young talent.
Tactical Evolution Under Carrick
Under Michael Carrick, Manchester United’s tactical approach has shown a distinct shift. Initially, the team’s success was largely built on transitions and rapid counter-attacks, utilising wingers like Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, alongside creative midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha. From Carrick’s first game, a 2-0 win against Manchester City, until the end of the season, United ranked third in fast breaks per game, averaging 1.53. They also led in goals scored from fast breaks per 90 minutes with 0.24 and were second in expected goals from fast breaks at 0.23.
Despite their effectiveness in transitions, United ranked 13th in possession and 11th in average possession duration, highlighting struggles with ball retention against teams employing low blocks. In the recent match against Rosenborg, even without key players like Fernandes and Cunha, the team appeared comfortable with possession. This suggests a potential shift in Carrick’s strategy, moving towards a more possession-oriented game, which may explain the appeal of signing a player like Youri Tielemans. While transitions remain part of their arsenal, as evidenced by their second and fourth goals, a broader approach to play is emerging.
Zirkzee’s Performance and Academy Prospects
Joshua Zirkzee, wearing the number 11 shirt for United, was widely considered the unofficial player of the match. Since his arrival in 2024, Zirkzee has sometimes been a subject of debate at Old Trafford, often not fitting the traditional number nine role and not consistently challenging Fernandes for the number 10 position. However, his technical quality has drawn comparisons to players like Dimitar Berbatov.
In Norway, Zirkzee excelled in his 60 minutes on the pitch, acting as a focal point for possession and effectively bringing teammates into play. He contributed to two goals, assisting the first and scoring the second with a remarkable solo effort. His goal involved a give-and-go with substitute Harry Amass, followed by intricate footwork that bypassed two defenders and the goalkeeper before he slotted the ball into an open net. This performance has led some to advocate for a more prominent role for Zirkzee, though the pace of the game in Trondheim may have suited his style, and questions about his ability to consistently handle the intensity of English football persist. His display might offer insight into how Carrick plans to utilise Benjamin Sesko upon his return.
The match also showcased the talent emerging from United’s academy. Shea Lacey, 19, started as the number 10 and grew into the game, displaying maturity and scoring the opening goal. He was voted player of the match by United fans. Lacey’s goal, a smooth shot that curled into the far corner, demonstrated his class. Despite a period where the hype around him had quietened, he shows potential for a significant role in the first team.
Harry Amass, another 19-year-old, came on as a half-time substitute. His progress had been affected by injuries last season after a strong start on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. He impressed with his defensive work on the left flank and his ability on the ball, scoring United’s fourth goal by sliding in at the far post. His performance makes a case for him to be considered as a back-up for Luke Shaw.
Jacob Devaney and Ethan Williams also found the net. Devaney, who played in central defence despite preferring midfield, was praised by Carrick after the earlier Wrexham defeat and continued to be an assured presence, scoring from a corner. Jaydan Kamason, a 19-year-old right-back, also stood out with two assists, demonstrating excellent low crosses and winger-like footwork, despite some positional lapses off the ball. Carrick’s decision to give him more minutes than many other young players highlights his potential.
Unused Talent and Future Prospects
Fifteen-year-old JJ Gabriel, a highly anticipated talent, was part of the travelling squad but remained an unused substitute. His inclusion had generated excitement among fans hoping to see him play. However, he did not receive any minutes in the match. Carrick had indicated before the game that Gabriel would feature in upcoming friendlies, suggesting that patience is key for the young prodigy, a sentiment echoed by United Academy Director Stephen Torpey in May.
The match concluded with Manchester United’s 5-0 victory over Rosenborg.
Source: skysports.com
As Latest News UK's Sports Reporter, Hannah Whitfield reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name covering the county circuit and Team GB at two Commonwealth Games. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Loughborough University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Hannah lives in Bristol, where she plays club tennis and coaches a junior side. “Sport is at its best when you let the athletes tell the story.”