Manchester United team news for Friday’s friendly against Rosenborg includes a first senior call-up for 15-year-old JJ Gabriel. Michael Carrick has selected the forward in his 25-man travelling squad after Ethan Wheatley was ruled out with a minor calf problem.
Gabriel has impressed for United’s academy sides and during senior training. The Norway trip places him in contention for his first-team debut as Carrick continues to assess the club’s younger players.
The Evening Standard reports that Carrick is expected to use two different teams again. United followed that approach during their opening pre-season defeat against Wrexham in Helsinki.
Manchester United team news and predicted XI
Benjamin Sesko remains unavailable because of a shin problem, while Matthijs de Ligt is recovering from back surgery. New goalkeeper Karl Darlow is also absent after undergoing a minor procedure at the end of last season.
Tom Heaton could start in goal, with Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven among the defensive options. Harry Amass impressed from the bench against Wrexham and is pushing to replace Luke Shaw at left-back.
Andrey Santos is expected to continue in midfield following his United debut. Mason Mount could partner him, although Tyler Fletcher is also in contention for a starting place.
Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu should receive further minutes behind Joshua Zirkzee. Jack Fletcher is likely to operate as the central attacking midfielder.
ReadManUtd previously examined Carrick’s search for his first pre-season victory against Rosenborg. Friday’s match gives United another opportunity to improve their fitness and introduce Carrick’s tactical ideas.
Predicted United XI: Heaton; Yoro, Heaven, Maguire, Amass; Santos, Mount; Dorgu, J Fletcher, Mbeumo; Zirkzee.
The Manchester United team news leaves Carrick without several senior players, but Gabriel’s inclusion provides the main point of interest before kick-off.
