Manchester United achieved their first pre-season victory, defeating Norwegian side Rosenborg 5-0 in Trondheim. This match, which followed a loss to Wrexham, showcased several strong individual performances and hinted at an evolution in the team’s playing style under manager Michael Carrick.
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 Shifts Under Carrick
Under Michael Carrick’s initial temporary management, Manchester United’s improved fortunes were largely attributed to a focus on transitions and fast-breaks, utilising wingers like Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, and creative players such as Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha. From Carrick’s first game in charge, a 2-0 win against Manchester City, until the season’s end, the team ranked third in fast breaks per game. They were also joint first in goals scored from fast breaks per 90 and second in expected goals from fast breaks.
Despite these strengths, the team ranked 13th in possession and 11th in average possession duration, indicating struggles with ball retention, a recurring issue since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson. This often led to difficulties against teams employing low defensive blocks. In the recent match against Rosenborg, however, a United side without Fernandes or Cunha appeared comfortable with possession. Joshua Zirkzee played a significant role in maintaining possession in attack and initiating build-up play.
While transitions remain a part of United’s strategy, as seen in their second and fourth goals, Carrick’s approach appears to be evolving. This shift in style may offer insight into the appeal of signing Youri Tielemans.
Key Player Performances
Joshua Zirkzee was a notable performer in the match. Since his arrival in 2024, he has been a figure of discussion at Old Trafford, often not fitting neatly into a traditional number nine role and not consistently displacing Fernandes as a number 10. However, his technical quality has drawn comparisons to players like Dimitar Berbatov.
In Trondheim, Zirkzee was effective, acting as a focal point for possession and demonstrating sharpness in bringing other players into the game. He contributed to two goals during his 60 minutes on the pitch, assisting one and scoring another. His goal involved a give-and-go with substitute Harry Amass, followed by skillful footwork that deceived two defenders and the goalkeeper before he slotted the ball into an open net. This performance has led some to suggest a more prominent role for Zirkzee in the upcoming season, though the pace of the game may have suited his style. There are suggestions that this display could indicate how Carrick might utilise Benjamin Sesko upon his return.
The match also highlighted the talent emerging from United’s academy. Shea Lacey, who started as the number 10, grew into the game and scored the opening goal with a composed finish. He was voted player of the match by United fans. Lacey, who has previously shown glimpses of his ability in the first team, demonstrated maturity in a more prominent role. His progress had reportedly quietened over the past year, but he remains a player with potential for the first team.
Harry Amass, a half-time substitute, also made an impression. His progress had been affected by injuries last season after a strong start at Sheffield Wednesday. He scored United’s fourth goal, showing good instinct for getting into dangerous areas from full-back, and also defended effectively on the left flank. Jacob Devaney and Ethan Williams also found the net. Jaydan Kamason, a right-back, provided two assists, showcasing excellent footwork and an eye for low crosses, and played more minutes than many other young players.
JJ Gabriel, a 15-year-old, was included in the travelling squad, generating excitement among fans. However, he remained an unused substitute. Carrick indicated that Gabriel would receive minutes in future friendlies, suggesting patience is required for the young talent.
Shea Lacey, Jacob Devaney, and Harry Amass, all 19, were on target, making a strong case for their inclusion in the squad in the coming months. Lacey’s goal, a smoothly curled shot into the far corner, was particularly eye-catching. Devaney, playing in central defence, was praised by Carrick following the Wrexham defeat and again demonstrated an assured presence in Norway, scoring with a first-time finish after a corner. Amass, who has reportedly developed physically, impressed on loan at Sheffield Wednesday before an injury, and his goal against Rosenborg served as a reminder to Carrick of his potential as a backup to Luke Shaw.
The match concluded with a 5-0 victory for Manchester United.
Source: skysports.com
