Manchester United kicked off their pre‑season with a 5‑0 win over Rosenborg in Trondheim. The victory adds to a recent form of 4W‑1D‑0L (WWWWD) and follows a 3‑0 away triumph over Brighton on 24 May 2026.
The Norwegian friendly saw United dominate possession, creating chances from the first minute. Goals came from a swift counter‑attack, a set‑piece header, and a clinical finish by the newly signed striker. The win pushes United’s pre‑season tally to five clean sheets, reinforcing confidence ahead of a packed schedule that includes fixtures against Atletico Madrid, PSG, Leeds United and AC Milan.
Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea for £48 million plus add‑ons, bringing a defensive edge and a keen reading of the game. Though he lacks Premier League experience, his 22‑year‑old energy impressed coaches during training. Youri Tielemans, the Belgium captain, was snapped up from Aston Villa after United triggered his release clause, adding creativity and ball‑retention to a midfield that already features Kobbie Mainoo. Both signings aim to fill the void left by the departing Brazilian midfielder Casemiro.
Midfielder Manuel Ugarte remains sidelined, limiting United’s options in the central zone. Meanwhile, Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko, who suffered a setback early in the season, has returned to training and appears physically stronger, adding depth to the attacking line‑up.
The club faces a demanding itinerary, with matches in Sweden, Ireland and Poland before the Premier League restarts. United finished the 2025 campaign in 3rd place with 71 points (20W‑11D‑7L) and a goal difference of +19, scoring 69 and conceding 50. They sit 14 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race. The next league test arrives on 31 October 2026, away at Chelsea, who sit 10th in the table.
With a solid pre‑season performance, fresh midfield talent, and key players returning from injury, United aim to translate early momentum into a competitive Champions League run and a push for the Premier League title. The blend of experience and youth could prove decisive as the season unfolds.
