Manchester United’s pre-season trip to Norway offered more than an improved performance against Rosenborg.
The camp also provided an insight into Michael Carrick’s academy focus, his relationship with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the atmosphere developing around the squad.
United responded to their disappointing defeat against Wrexham by beating Rosenborg 5-0 at Lerkendal Stadion. Shea Lacey and Joshua Zirkzee scored before half-time, with Jacob Devaney, Harry Amass and Ethan Williams adding goals after the break.
Carrick’s side returned home immediately after the match rather than remaining in Norway. However, the short trip still contained several moments which reflected his early priorities.
Manchester United pre-season camp puts academy players first
The strongest indication came during the second half against Rosenborg. United finished the match with an entirely academy-produced outfield team, while Jaydan Kamason supplied two assists from right-back.
Carrick has repeatedly encouraged young players to express themselves rather than become overwhelmed by senior football. Their performance in Trondheim supported that approach.
ReadManUtd identified the academy display among five lessons from the Rosenborg victory. Lacey impressed from the start, while Devaney, Amass, Williams and Kamason used their second-half opportunities well.
Mason Mount also received the captain’s armband after the interval. The midfielder later discussed his responsibility to help younger teammates settle, as covered in ReadManUtd’s report on Mount’s emerging leadership role.
Carrick therefore combined youth development with senior responsibility. Mount and Harry Maguire were trusted to set standards around a squad containing several inexperienced players.
Solskjaer reunion and pizza provide relaxed moments
Carrick met Solskjaer during the visit to Norway. The pair worked together at United and remained close despite competing for the interim managerial position following Ruben Amorim’s departure.
The reunion was informal rather than an official club event. According to the Manchester Evening News’ account from inside the trip, Solskjaer was in good spirits but continued to maintain a low public profile.
United’s players were given pizza in the dressing room after the victory before flying home. The gesture followed a demanding match and provided a small reward before Saturday’s scheduled day off.
Other relaxed moments included Bryan Mbeumo playing the piano at the team hotel and players spending time signing autographs for local supporters.
Maguire reportedly asked club staff to ensure every player greeted the fans waiting outside the hotel. That moment reflected an awareness of United’s enormous following in Scandinavia.
Football takes priority over commercial success
Several thousand seats remained empty for the Rosenborg match. Local supporters had criticised the friendly because it forced the rearrangement of a domestic fixture during their competitive season.
United were reportedly unconcerned by the attendance. Club sources stressed that the Scandinavian schedule was designed around football preparation rather than maximising commercial revenue.
The club’s official Rosenborg coverage showed the progress made from the Wrexham defeat. United played with greater tempo and produced five goals without conceding.
Harder matches against Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain will offer clearer tactical evidence. The Manchester United pre-season camp has already revealed Carrick’s willingness to trust academy players and create leadership roles for experienced members of his squad.
The Solskjaer meeting and post-match pizza added warmth to the trip. The lasting impression came from the pitch, where United’s young players rewarded Carrick’s faith.
