Manchester United's Pre-Season Friendly Against Atletico Madrid
Manchester United will face Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid in Stockholm, Sweden, for Michael Carrick's side's third pre-season match. The Red Devils have been on the road recently, having played against Wrexham and Rosenborg after returning to their training base at Carrington.
Since the last game, Amad and Altay Bayindir have been spotted at the training ground, possibly indicating they could be involved in the upcoming match. However, they might need another week to fully recover from their World Cup duties. Other first-team players remain on post-World Cup holidays but are expected to return before the next fixture against Paris Saint-Germain.
Carrick's Lineup Choices and Substitutions
Carrick made two changes at halftime during the Rosenborg match, followed by eight more after an hour and one more after 70 minutes. The substitutions on Saturday could follow a similar pattern, but he is more likely to wait until the end of the game to make all outfield changes.
Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were withdrawn at halftime, and Carrick will assess their readiness for an hour of play. Shaw's situation has garnered attention as United are reportedly willing to sell him for just £6 million.
Goalkeeper Position
Tom Heaton is likely to return between the posts, with Radek Vitek possibly being sold this summer. Karl Darlow could also see his first appearance since joining the team.
Defensive Lineup
The back-four that started against Rosenborg and Wrexham is expected to remain unchanged: Leny Yoro at right-back, Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven in central defence, and Luke Shaw at left-back. Andrey Santos and Mason Mount are likely to continue as the double-pivot partnership after their promising performances.
Amad's Return
While Carrick may give Amad a week to get up to speed, he could start against Atletico Madrid. This would allow Bryan Mbeumo to move through the middle with Joshua Zirkzee dropping to the bench. Patrick Dorgu will keep his place on the left flank, and Shea Lacey is likely to remain as the No.10.
Manchester United's Predicted XI vs Atletico Madrid
Heaton, Yoro, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw, Mount, Santos, Amad, Lacey, Dorgu, Mbeumo.
