Manchester United opened their summer campaign with a commanding 5-0 win over Norwegian outfit Rosenborg, a result that not only marked their first pre‑season victory but also showcased a refreshed tactical approach under new permanent manager Michael Carrick. The triumph came just six days after United’s unexpected loss to lower‑league side Wrexham, and the contrast could not have been starker.
Carrick’s side displayed a blend of individual brilliance and collective cohesion, hinting at an evolution in the club’s playing style that could carry them through the upcoming season. The match in Trondheim highlighted the influence of United’s famed academy, with several home‑grown talents stepping into the spotlight. While the performance was largely positive, a few lingering questions remain about the development of certain promising youngsters.
Sky Sports analyst Callum Bishop broke down the key moments, and his analysis underlines the strategic shifts that have taken place since Carrick assumed the role on an interim basis. One of the most notable changes has been United’s renewed emphasis on rapid transitions and swift counter‑attacks. The team’s game plan now revolves around exploiting the pace of wingers such as Bryan Mbeumo and the teenage prospect Patrick Dorgu, while allowing creative midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha to dictate the final third. Statistical data from Carrick’s tenure illustrates this shift: United have moved from a modest 2-0 win over Manchester City in Carrick’s debut to ranking third in the league for fast‑breaks per game (1.53), sharing the top spot for goals scored from fast breaks per 90 minutes (0.24), and sitting second for expected goals from those situations (0.23).
These numbers suggest a side that is increasingly comfortable turning defense into attack with speed and precision. At the same time, United’s possession figures remain modest. The squad ranked 13th in overall possession and 11th for average possession duration, measured in seconds. This continued difficulty in retaining the ball for extended periods reflects a lingering post‑Sir Alex Ferguson issue: the inability to dominate possession against well‑organized, low‑block teams.
Nonetheless, the pre‑season win demonstrated that United can still thrive without relying on prolonged ball control, instead using quick transitions to break down opponents. Rosenborg, while not a Premier League heavyweight, were already 13 games into their domestic season and possessed a physical edge that could have allowed them to dictate tempo.
United, however, chose to impose their own rhythm, relying on swift counter‑attacks and intelligent movement. Even in the absence of star forwards Fernandes and Cunha, the Red Devils looked comfortable on the ball.
Joshua Zirkzee, who has struggled to find a clear role since his arrival in 2024, proved decisive, contributing both an assist and a goal. His performance illustrated his ability to act as a conduit in attack, linking play and creating space for teammates. The second and fourth goals of the match were textbook examples of United’s transition game.
Both came from rapid breakaways that caught Rosenborg off guard, reinforcing the idea that Carrick intends to keep this weapon in his arsenal. Moreover, the permanent appointment of Carrick seems to be prompting subtle stylistic tweaks that may explain the club’s recent pursuit of midfield maestro Youri Tielemans – a player who could further enhance United’s ability to transition from defence to attack. Zirkzee’s impact earned him unofficial man‑of‑the‑match honours. Since joining United, the Dutch striker has faced criticism for not fitting neatly into a traditional number nine role or displacing Fernandes from the number ten slot.
Yet his technical flair and quick‑turn ability have drawn favourable comparisons to former United star Dimitar Berbatov. In Trondheim, Zirkzee acted as a “sponge” for possession, turning quickly to involve teammates, and his two contributions – an assist for the opening goal and a spectacular finish for the second – underscored his potential value. His second goal was a piece of individual brilliance: a one‑two with substitute Harry Amass, followed by deft footwork that beat two defenders before out‑witting the goalkeeper and slotting the ball home.
The strike was a moment of magic that delighted fans and sparked debate about whether Zirkzee should enjoy a larger role next season. While his pace suited the friendly’s tempo, doubts linger about his capacity to handle the relentless speed of English football week in, week out. In contrast, the club’s Slovenian forward Benjamin Šeško appears better equipped to lead the line, and Zirkzee’s display may simply provide Carrick with insight on how to deploy Šeško when he returns from injury. United’s academy continues to produce talent, and several youngsters left an indelible mark on the match.
Shea Lacey, deployed as a number ten, displayed maturity beyond his 19 years. He nearly scored a thunderous strike in a recent league draw with Burnley, and his composed finish for United’s opening goal earned him the admiration of supporters, who voted him player of the match.
Lacey’s development has slowed in the past year, but his performance in Trondheim suggests he could become a regular contributor. Harry Amass, who entered the game at halftime, has also shown promise despite an injury‑hit second half of last season. His goal demonstrated an instinct for making intelligent runs from a full‑back position, and his defensive work on the left flank was solid. With United seeking a reliable backup for left‑back Luke Shaw, Amass could be in contention for more minutes.
Jacob Devaney and Ethan Williams, both academy graduates, celebrated their first senior goals, moments they will cherish forever. Yet the unsung hero of the evening was right‑back Jaydan Kamason.
The 19‑year‑old may have been caught out of position at times, but his attacking contributions were electrifying. Two assists, delivered with the precision of a winger rather than a traditional full‑back, highlighted his crossing ability and footwork.
Carrick’s decision to give Kamason more playing time than many of his peers signals a growing trust in his potential. The buzz surrounding another academy prospect, JJ Gabriel, was palpable.
The 15‑year‑old’s name has been circulating in United circles after a viral video of him dislocating his elbow in a five‑aside game – a reminder of the youthful exuberance that defines pre‑season. Although Gabriel traveled with the squad, he remained on the bench in a fluorescent bib, receiving no minutes on the pitch. This decision sparked speculation about whether fans should temper expectations during friendlies. Carrick hinted that Gabriel will see action in future fixtures, and United Academy Director Stephen Torpey reminded supporters that patience is essential when nurturing talent.
In summary, Manchester United’s 5-0 demolition of Rosenborg offered a glimpse of a side that is rediscovering its identity under Michael Carrick. The blend of rapid transitions, academy integration, and tactical flexibility suggests a promising direction. While the victory alone does not guarantee success, the performances of Zirkzee, Lacey, Kamason, and others provide a foundation on which Carrick can build.
As the pre‑season continues, United will look to refine their possession play, solidify defensive organization, and give their young prospects the experience they need to thrive in the demanding environment of the Premier League.