Man Utd beaten by Wrexham in pre-season opener

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18 July 2026

Manchester United

began their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 defeat to

Wrexham

in Helsinki.

The only goal of the afternoon arrived six minutes before half-time when

Sam Smith

finished from close range after

Lewis O

'Brien burst down the left and drilled a low cross into the six-yard box. United's defence switched off, allowing the striker to steal in unmarked and tap past

Tom Heaton

Carrick named a strong starting XI, including summer signing

Andrey Santos

, who made his debut in midfield alongside

Mason Mount

Bryan Mbeumo

Harry Maguire

Luke Shaw

and

Leny Yoro

also featured, but United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities throughout the opening 45 minutes.

Michael Carrick changed most of his side at the break, giving several academy players valuable minutes.

Ethan Wheatley

came closest to finding an equaliser, but his effort was well saved by

Danny Ward

held firm.

United looked short of sharpness for long spells, although that was to be expected with a number of senior players, including

Bruno Fernandes

Youri Tielemans

Benjamin Sesko

, unavailable following the World Cup or injury.

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