Manchester United pre-season: Zirkzee resurgence, Rashford uncertainty and a pressing need at left-back

Carrick’s United show signs of tactical evolution

Manchester United have completed their pre-season with a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan, leaving Michael Carrick with several important questions to answer before the new Premier League campaign begins. While the result against Milan exposed some defensive weaknesses, United’s preparations have also offered encouraging signs, particularly in the form of a tactical shift under Carrick and the improved performances of several players.

Mbeumo and Amad provide reasons for optimism

Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo have been among the standout performers during pre-season. After appearing to tire towards the end of last season, both players have looked sharper and more energetic. Mbeumo has impressed in front of goal, while Amad has shown renewed confidence following his involvement with Ivory Coast at the World Cup.

Their form could prove particularly important as United look to increase the intensity of their game under Carrick. The manager is demanding more from his side both with and without the ball, and the performances of Mbeumo and Amad suggest they could be well suited to that approach.

Zirkzee offers Carrick another option

Joshua Zirkzee has also emerged as an intriguing figure during pre-season. The Dutch forward has looked significantly more confident than in previous seasons, despite uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at Old Trafford.

His performance against Leeds in Dublin was particularly impressive, raising the possibility that Carrick could use him in a different role. With Bruno Fernandes remaining central to United’s plans, Zirkzee could potentially provide cover in the No 10 position as well as offering another attacking option.

With the new season set to be his third at United, Zirkzee has an opportunity to establish himself under Carrick. Whether he remains at the club will be one of the issues to monitor before the transfer window closes.

Left-back remains a major weakness

Perhaps the clearest conclusion from pre-season is that United still need to strengthen at left-back. Carrick has begun moving the team towards a more aggressive approach, with United defending higher, pressing more intensely and attempting to win possession back quickly after losing the ball.

That tactical evolution brings greater demands on the defence. Against Milan, United were punished when their press failed to work effectively, with one long ball exposing the high defensive line and contributing to a goal. The issue highlighted the importance of having defenders with enough recovery pace to deal with situations when the system is breached.

Luke Shaw will also need to be managed across a demanding season, particularly with European football returning. United therefore have limited time to find an additional option capable of fitting Carrick’s preferred approach.

Rashford’s future remains unresolved

Marcus Rashford is another major storyline heading into the new campaign. The forward has returned to Manchester after his loan spell at Barcelona, and despite uncertainty over his future, reports suggest he has been positive about his return.

Carrick has publicly indicated that Rashford remains his player and that he is looking forward to working with him. For now, the England international is expected to remain at Old Trafford, but that could change before the September transfer deadline.

Rashford is reportedly only interested in a move to an elite-level club, while his current United contract could make a transfer difficult to arrange. His future is therefore likely to remain a major talking point until the window closes.