Michael Carrick was encouraged by Manchester United’s performance after his side came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 in Stockholm.
The reaction focused on the team’s growing identity, the impact of United’s younger players and another important step towards the new season.
Bryan Mbeumo scored twice after Arnau Ortiz had given Atletico an early lead, with United recovering impressively against Diego Simeone’s side. Victory also saw Harry Maguire lift the Snapdragon Cup at the Strawberry Arena.
ReadManUtd covered the game in our Manchester United 2-1 Atletico Madrid match report, with Shea Lacey and Jack Fletcher also making important contributions.
Michael Carrick Man United reaction highlights progress
Speaking to MUTV after the game, Carrick said there were “a lot of positives” to take from the performance.
The United boss was particularly pleased with how his senior players and academy prospects combined. Lacey won the penalty for Mbeumo’s equaliser, while Fletcher created the winning goal after intercepting possession in the Atletico half.
Carrick also highlighted the importance of coming through another demanding friendly without fresh injury problems. United are preparing for a much busier campaign following their return to the Champions League, so building fitness without losing players has been a major pre-season priority.
There was also encouragement in the way United responded after conceding inside five minutes. Rather than losing control, Carrick’s side gradually grew into the contest and produced a stronger second-half performance.
The Michael Carrick Man United reaction suggests the manager believes his side are moving in the right direction. There is still work to do before competitive football begins, but victory over Atletico provided another encouraging sign.
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