Tyrone Marshall

Michael Carrick’s first off-camera press conference since becoming Manchester United head coach revealed an unusually open and upbeat approach. He discussed his daughter’s A-Level results, praised the influence of new players including Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans, and openly acknowledged that United need further transfer additions and possibly significant spending. Unlike Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, Carrick is portrayed as embracing the club’s expectations rather than lowering them, encouraging players to believe they can compete for major honours despite United’s recent struggles.

Michael Carrick has indicated that Marcus Rashford is increasingly likely to remain at Manchester United after returning to first-team training following loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona. Barcelona declined a reported £26 million permanent deal, while United are reluctant to arrange another loan, and Carrick says Rashford can make a major contribution. Carrick has also urged the club to continue strengthening its squad, particularly at left-back and central midfield, ahead of a season involving four competitions and a return to the Champions League. He says recruitment discussions with Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada remain positive but stresses that any major spending must target the right players rather than simply break the club's transfer record.

Manchester United drew 1–1 with Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg during their pre-season preparations. PSG took an early lead through Ibrahim Mbaye, but Bryan Mbeumo equalised after good work from Amad. The match produced little further attacking action and was overshadowed by injuries to Mason Mount and goalkeeper Tom Heaton. Harry Maguire and Mbeumo received the highest ratings for United, while several players were assessed at 5/10 after uncertain or ineffective displays.

Manchester United came from behind to defeat Atlético Madrid 2-1 in Stockholm and win the Snapdragon Cup. Arnau Ortiz gave Atlético an early lead, but Bryan Mbeumo equalised from the penalty spot after Shea Lacey won the kick and later scored his second following Jack Fletcher’s assist. Mason Mount, Shea Lacey and Mbeumo received the highest ratings at 8/10, while several young players, including Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Amad, were praised for their performances.

Manchester United reached a £50 million agreement with Chelsea to sign 22-year-old midfielder Andrey Santos, paying £48 million upfront with £2 million in add-ons and including a 10 percent sell-on clause. Santos agreed personal terms and will undergo a medical as he prepares to join Michael Carrick’s midfield rebuild alongside incoming signing Ederson. The move fills the gap left by Casemiro’s departure, while United’s pursuit of Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni remains uncertain. Santos arrives after a full season with Chelsea and previous loan spells, having narrowly missed Brazil’s final World Cup squad.

Family, friends and prominent football figures gathered at St Peter's Church in Prestbury to honor Alex Hughes, son of former Manchester United striker Mark Hughes, following his sudden death at 38. Mark Hughes helped carry the coffin, while emotional tributes were delivered by Alex’s father‑in‑law David Pollock and his brother Curtis, who shared memories of his warmth, dedication and lifelong passion for football. Mourners included Sir Alex Ferguson and several well‑known football personalities, with Grimsby Town, where Alex worked in recruitment, dedicating their first match of the season to him.