Manchester United achieved their first pre-season victory with a 5-0 win against Rosenborg in Trondheim. This match followed a defeat to Wrexham six days prior and showcased several strong individual performances, alongside an evolution in the team’s playing style under manager Michael Carrick.
The influence of the club’s youth academy was also evident, with several young players making an impact. However, one young talent, JJ Gabriel, remained an unused substitute, leading to questions among some fans.
Tactical Shift Under Carrick
Under Michael Carrick, Manchester United previously focused on transitions and rapid counter-attacks, utilising wingers like Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, and creative players such as Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha. From Carrick’s initial game in charge, a 2-0 victory over Manchester City, until the end of the season, the team ranked third in fast breaks per game. They were also joint first in goals from fast breaks per 90 minutes 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, who are 13 games into their league season and potentially physically advantaged, United demonstrated a different approach.
Even without Fernandes or Cunha, United appeared comfortable with possession, at times dismantling Rosenborg’s defence. Joshua Zirkzee played a crucial role in maintaining possession in attack and building play. While transitions remain part of United’s strategy, as seen in their second and fourth goals, Carrick’s permanent appointment suggests a shift in style, possibly explaining the appeal of signing Youri Tielemans.
Zirkzee and Academy Prospects Impress
Joshua Zirkzee was a standout performer, scoring two goals and assisting another within 60 minutes of play. His goal, a give-and-go with Harry Amass followed by intricate footwork to beat two defenders and the goalkeeper, was particularly notable. Since his arrival in 2024, Zirkzee, wearing the number 11 shirt, has been a debated figure, not fitting neatly as a number nine and not displacing Fernandes as a number 10. However, his technical quality has drawn comparisons to players like Dimitar Berbatov.
Despite his performance, questions persist about Zirkzee’s ability to maintain this level in the faster pace of English football. The match conditions in Trondheim were seen as favourable to his style of play. Some suggest his role in this game might offer insight into how Carrick intends to utilise Benjamin Sesko upon his return.
The club’s academy graduates also shone. Shea Lacey, 19, started as the number 10 and grew into the game, scoring the opener with a composed finish. He was voted player of the match by United fans. Lacey’s goal, a smooth shot curled into the far corner, demonstrated his class. His progress had been affected by injuries, but his performance suggests a potential role in the first team.
Harry Amass, also 19, entered as a half-time substitute. His progress was previously hampered by injuries after an impressive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday. He scored United’s fourth goal, showing good instinct for getting into dangerous areas from full-back, while also defending effectively and displaying intelligence on the ball. Amass made a strong case to Carrick for consideration as a back-up to Luke Shaw.
Jacob Devaney, another 19-year-old, also found the net with an instinctive first-time finish after coming up for a corner. Devaney, who played in central defence despite preferring midfield, was praised by Carrick after the previous week’s game against Wrexham. Ethan Williams completed the scoring, contributing to the rout. Jaydan Kamason, a 19-year-old right-back, also impressed with two assists, showcasing excellent footwork and a keen eye for low crosses, playing more minutes than many other young players.
Unused Substitute and Future Prospects
Fifteen-year-old JJ Gabriel, a highly-regarded young talent, was part of the travelling squad but remained on the bench throughout the match. His inclusion had generated excitement among fans hoping to see him play. However, Carrick indicated before the game that Gabriel would receive minutes in upcoming friendlies. This suggests that fans should exercise patience regarding the young prodigy’s debut.
Source: skysports.com
As NewsGB.org's Sports News Writer, Theo Marsden reports on rugby union, golf and boxing for readers across the country. He began on a regional sports desk in Yorkshire. He holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Hull and completed an NCTJ diploma. Theo lives in Hull, where he follows the European Tour and amateur rugby. “Sport moves fast; readers deserve it right the first time.”