Manchester United registered a comeback 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in Stockholm earlier today.
The Red Devils showed remarkable character after falling behind early, with Bryan Mbeumo inspiring the turnaround through a brilliant second-half brace.
The performance featured several standout moments, including JJ Gabriel’s unofficial senior debut at just 15.
Andrey Santos delivered another superb performance, while Shea Lacey strengthened his case for a permanent promotion to the first-team squad.
There were plenty of positives to celebrate, but one selection decision from manager Michael Carrick may have carried the biggest message of all.
Joshua Zirkzee started the first two pre-season friendlies as the central striker, only to find himself relegated to the bench against Atletico Madrid.
Carrick trusted Bryan Mbeumo to spearhead the attack despite Zirkzee registering a goal and an assist against Rosenborg only a few days earlier.
Teenage sensation Shea Lacey operated as the number ten, while Amad Diallo started on the right wing.
The head coach appears ready to deploy a more fluid attacking system whenever Benjamin Sesko is unavailable.
That could see either Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha leading the line rather than relying on Zirkzee as a conventional centre-forward.
Cunha already demonstrated his ability to excel in that role while representing Brazil at the FIFA World Cup.
Zirkzee lacks the explosive pace and penalty-box presence typically expected from a striker.
His greatest strengths lie in linking play and threading intelligent passes through defensive lines.
Even as an attacking midfielder, questions remain over whether his defensive work rate is sufficient for the demands of the Premier League.
Those concerns may explain why United remain open to listening to suitable offers this summer.
The 25-year-old has emerged as a priority target for Juventus, who are reportedly exploring a loan deal with an option to buy.
Zirkzee joined United from Bologna for £36.5 million in the summer of 2024.
Since arriving at Old Trafford, he has made 75 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing three assists.
Stats from Fotmob.com