Manchester United began their pre-season campaign with a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki, Finland, marking Michael Carrick’s first match since taking over as the club’s permanent head coach.
The only goal of the game came just before halftime when former Reading striker Sam Smith finished from close range after Lewis O’Brien surged down the left wing and delivered a low cross into the six-yard box. Smith slipped between Ayden Heaven and Harry Maguire to poke the ball past goalkeeper Tom Heaton.
Summer signing Andrey Santos made his debut for United after completing his £48 million move, partnering Mason Mount in midfield, but the Brazilian struggled to make a significant impact during the opening 45 minutes.
Several senior players were unavailable, with Bruno Fernandes among those rested following their World Cup commitments. New signing Youri Tielemans, whose £35 million transfer was confirmed earlier this week, was also absent. Goalkeeper Karl Darlow missed the trip after undergoing a minor operation, while striker Benjamin Sesko remained sidelined with a shin injury. United, however, remain confident both players will be fit for the start of the new Premier League season.
Carrick changed his entire lineup at halftime, giving several U21 and U18 players the opportunity to feature in the second half, but the young side was unable to find an equaliser.
The Red Devils struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the match despite fielding first-team players such as Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu in the opening half.
Having finished third in the Premier League last season under Carrick, Manchester United will be hoping for a much-improved display as they continue their preparations for the new campaign.
