Manchester United return to action for the first time since the FA Cup Final when the Red Devils take on Rosenborg in pre-season at 5pm.
Manchester United announced a 25-man squad who have travelled to Rosenborg, with a handful of surprises.
Andre Onana, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Amad, and Antony are all missing, in addition to the Euro 2024 and Copa America contingent.
So what should we look out for? Here are five situations to watch, in Manchester United’s first pre-season friendly of 2024.
Can a young goalkeeper step up
Manchester United have taken three young goalkeepers to Norway. These are Radek Vitek, Dermot Mee, and Elyh Harrison.
Vitek is the most experienced of the trio, he is a FA Youth Cup winner, and he has first team experience out on loan at Accrington Stanley. He is likely to start the game.
Don’t be surprised to see Elyh Harrison get minutes. The teenager is very highly rated, winning the Denzil Haroun Award at the club last season.
Left-back needed, two could get chance
While Tyrell Malacia has returned to individual training, Manchester United head into this friendly fixture without a recognised senior left-back. No change there then.
This game provides an opportunity for two young players to step up and show what they can do.
Of particular interest is academy sensation Harry Amass, an England youth international who was integral to the under-18s winning three trophies last season. He has featured on the first team bench already.
Also available is FA Youth Cup winner Sam Murray, who will relish an opportunity to put his name back into the conversation.
Mason Mount’s new start
Mason Mount has is looking to start all over again after a torrid injury-hit first season at Manchester United.
Mount must demonstrate he is a good fit for this Manchester United team, while also looking to boost his fitness and confidence.
He is likely to start in midfield alongside Casemiro, and we just want to see some positive signs from the number seven, who was a big £55 million signing a year ago.
Toby Collyer opportunity
One player to really keep an eye on is young midfield prospect Toby Collyer, who has just signed a new contract.
Erik ten Hag has high hopes for Collyer, but Manchester United fans have seen little of him. This is an early chance for him to stake a claim for a squad role next season.
Exciting winger depth
There are multiple wingers unavailable, making this fixture a unique chance for United’s younger players at the position.
Sam Mather could take advantage, he was also part of the FA Youth Cup winning side, and is an England under-19s international.
Ethan Williams is another youngster to keep an eye on, he was prolific in the academy last season, while Ethan Ennis is an exciting prospect who could make an impact now he is back from a serious injury.
United have real depth at the position and this is a chance for one or more of them to make a name for themselves and give Erik ten Hag something to think about.
A chance for goals
All eyes will be on Marcus Rashford as Manchester United’s most senior player in attack. After a poor season last time out, he needs to respond strongly.
But there is another name who could overshadow him, young striker Ethan Wheatley.
Wheatley made his Manchester United debut late last season, the 250th academy graduate to do so.
He was prolific at youth level last season and he could get at least 45 minutes in this game to force his way into Erik ten Hag’s first team plans for 2024/25.
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