Manchester United continue their preseason preparations on Friday with a friendly against Norwegian side Rosenborg at Lerkendal Stadion in Trondheim, as excitement grows around Michael Carrick’s rebuilt squad and marquee signing Bryan Mbeumo. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. BST, with the match serving as United’s second outing of the summer.
The Red Devils head into the fixture looking to bounce back from a 1-0 defeat to Wrexham in Carrick’s first preseason game since taking charge on a long-term deal. Despite the result, the manager used the match to assess a mix of experienced first-team players and promising academy talents as preparations continue ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
A 25-man squad has travelled to Norway, featuring senior names such as Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, and new signing Bryan Mbeumo, alongside several academy prospects. One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of highly rated 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, who could make his unofficial senior debut after impressing in the youth ranks last season.
Much of the spotlight, however, will be on Mbeumo. The Cameroon international, who joined United in a £71 million deal, has impressed supporters with his sharpness during training sessions. Clips of his finishing have gone viral on social media, with many fans predicting he could contribute 30 or more goals and assists across all competitions if he settles quickly into Carrick’s attacking system.
Carrick is expected to continue rotating his squad against Rosenborg, particularly with several key players still unavailable through injury. The manager has stressed that results are secondary during preseason, with the focus remaining on fitness, tactical development and integrating new arrivals.
Following the clash in Trondheim, United will continue their Nordic tour before facing Atlético Madrid in another high-profile friendly. The coaching staff hope the remaining fixtures will provide the squad with valuable match rhythm before competitive football returns next month.
For supporters, Friday’s game offers another opportunity to see Carrick’s evolving side in action, and perhaps a first glimpse of what Mbeumo and United’s next generation can deliver this season.
