Trondheim: Manchester United secure 5-0 pre-season victory against Rosenborg
Manchester United achieved their first pre-season victory with a 5-0 win over Norwegian side Rosenborg in Trondheim. The match saw several strong individual performances and indicated 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.
The win followed a defeat to Wrexham six days prior, making this result a significant turnaround for Carrick’s side. The game provided insights into potential tactical shifts and highlighted the contributions of both established players and emerging talents.
Tactical Evolution Under Carrick
Under Michael Carrick, Manchester United’s approach has shown signs of change. Previously, the team’s success was largely built on transitions and fast-breaks, utilising rapid wingers such as Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, alongside creative players like Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha. From Carrick’s initial game in charge, a 2-0 win over Manchester City, to the end of the season, the team ranked third in fast breaks per game, joint first in goals scored from fast breaks per 90, and second in expected goals from fast breaks.
Despite these statistics, the team ranked 13th in possession and 11th in average possession duration, indicating struggles with ball retention against teams employing low blocks. However, in the recent match against Rosenborg, a United side without Fernandes or Cunha appeared comfortable with possession. This suggests a potential shift in strategy, with Carrick possibly aiming for greater ball control.
While Rosenborg may not be at the level of Premier League teams, their position 13 games into their league campaign suggested they would be physically capable. Yet, United managed to control the game at times, with Joshua Zirkzee playing a key role in maintaining possession in attack. The team’s second and fourth goals demonstrated that transitions remain a part of their arsenal, but the overall performance hinted at a more possession-based approach, which could explain the appeal of signing a player like Youri Tielemans.
Key Player Performances
Joshua Zirkzee was a standout performer in the match, scoring one goal and assisting another within his 60 minutes on the pitch. The United number 11, who joined in 2024, has sometimes been a subject of debate regarding his optimal position, with comparisons drawn to players like Dimitar Berbatov due to his technical quality. In Trondheim, he excelled in holding possession and bringing teammates into play.
His goal was particularly notable, involving a give-and-go with substitute Harry Amass, followed by skillful footwork that evaded two defenders and the goalkeeper before he slotted the ball into an open net. Despite this impressive display, questions remain about his suitability for the pace of English football, with some suggesting that Benjamin Sesko might be better equipped to lead the line for United.
Academy Graduates Impress
The match also showcased the talent emerging from Manchester United’s youth academy. Shea Lacey, Jacob Devaney, and Harry Amass, all aged 19, were among those who caught the eye. Lacey, starting as the number 10, grew into the game and scored the opener with a composed finish. He was voted player of the match by United fans, demonstrating his potential for a significant role in the first team.
Harry Amass, a half-time substitute, also made an impact, scoring United’s fourth goal. His progress had been affected by injuries last season after an impressive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday. His goal highlighted his instinct for getting into dangerous areas from full-back, and he also displayed defensive solidity and intelligence on the ball. Jacob Devaney, playing in central defence, was an assured presence and added a goal with a first-time finish from a corner. Devaney had previously received praise from Carrick after the Wrexham defeat.
Other young players who made contributions included Ethan Williams, who completed the rout with a goal, and Jaydan Kamason. The 19-year-old right-back provided two assists, showcasing his ability to deliver low crosses and his winger-like footwork, despite sometimes being caught out positionally. Carrick’s decision to give Kamason more minutes than many other youngsters suggests confidence in his abilities.
Unused Talent
One young prodigy, 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, was included in the travelling squad but remained an unused substitute. His inclusion had generated excitement among fans eager to see the teenager in action. However, he did not feature in the match. Michael Carrick indicated before the game that Gabriel would receive minutes in upcoming friendlies, suggesting that patience is key for the young player’s development.
This approach aligns with the sentiment expressed by United Academy Director Stephen Torpey, who spoke about the importance of patience in May. The team’s next pre-season fixtures will likely provide further opportunities for both established players and emerging talents to demonstrate their capabilities.
Source: skysports.com
Reuben Castle is the Sports News Writer at News GB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with six years of reporting experience. He moved from print into digital sport news. He holds a degree in Journalism from Coventry University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Coventry, he follows the Open Championship and amateur boxing. “Accuracy first; the analysis can follow.”
