Manchester United has announced its traveling squad for the opening pre-season friendly against Wrexham in Helsinki. The squad features a mix of senior players and youth prospects, with several key figures looking to make their mark under the club's new management.
New signing Andrey Santos is set to make his debut after a £50 million move from Chelsea. The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder, who was concerned about first-team opportunities at his previous club, will compete for a starting spot in Michael Carrick's 4-2-3-1 system. He faces competition from Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo as the club seeks to rebuild its midfield, potentially adding a third central midfielder before the September 1 transfer deadline.
Forward Bryan Mbeumo, who joined from Brentford for £71 million a year ago, will aim to start the season strongly. Mbeumo, 26, can provide options across United's attack, playing on the flanks or through the middle. Last season, he scored 12 goals and ended the campaign well, finding the net against Nottingham Forest and Brighton.
Defender Harry Maguire, 33, has signed a new one-year contract and will be looking to capitalize on his experience and aerial dominance, particularly with Matthijs de Ligt recovering from surgery. Maguire was particularly effective in the latter half of the previous season after returning from injury.
Mason Mount, a £60 million signing from Chelsea in 2023, is aiming to make a significant impact this season as he enters the final two years of his contract. The 27-year-old midfielder's best position remains unclear, and he will be looking to establish himself as a versatile option for Carrick in a demanding fixture list that includes a return to Champions League action.
Luke Shaw, the club's longest-serving player, will also be under scrutiny. The 31-year-old left-back, who joined from Southampton 12 years ago for up to £31 million, is out of contract next June. Despite starting every Premier League game last season, a repeat of that workload is considered unrealistic, and the club is reportedly seeking another left-back. A decision on Shaw's new contract, likely involving a pay cut, is expected by the end of the year.
Joshua Zirkzee, who arrived from Bologna for £36.5 million two years ago, has struggled to secure a regular starting position. The 25-year-old forward's opportunities have been limited, especially after the signing of Benjamin Sesko. The club may look to find a new club for Zirkzee if they sign another forward this summer.
Young defender Leny Yoro, highly rated by the club, will aim to establish himself this season after a debut campaign disrupted by injury. The French player made over half of his 33 appearances last term as a substitute and is seen as a potential long-term successor to Maguire and De Ligt.
Patrick Dorgu, signed as a left wing-back, has shown promise in more advanced roles. The young Dane scored in Carrick's initial matches against Manchester City and Arsenal, and will be assessed for his role in Carrick's plans as the club potentially seeks a left-back and a left-sided forward.
Ayden Heaven, a 19-year-old defender, will have an opportunity to stake his claim on the left side of central defense during pre-season. With Lisandro Martinez returning shortly before the new campaign kicks off on August 22, Heaven, who spent much of last season on the bench, will be looking to impress.
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow will remain in Manchester to continue his recovery from a procedure at the end of last season. Tom Heaton, Radek Vitek, and Dermot Mee will form the goalkeeping contingent for the match.