Zirkzee shines as Manchester United thrash Rosenborg 5-0 in pre-season friendly

Manchester United registered their first win of the 2026/27 pre-season after a crushing 5-0 triumph over Rosenborg. Goals came from Shea Lacey, Joshua Zirkzee, and rising stars Jacob Devaney, Harry Amass, and Ethan Williams, all contributing to the rout.

Manager Michael Carrick made only two changes to the starting lineup compared to the match against Wrexham in Finland. Goalkeeper Radek Vitek was given the starting nod, while Shea Lacey featured in a central role behind Joshua Zirkzee instead of his usual wide position.

Rosenborg started the match more aggressively, benefiting from home advantage and better match fitness as the Norwegian season is still ongoing. However, Manchester United soon regained control. Bryan Mbeumo constantly troubled the opposition defense, while Mason Mount fired a shot from the edge of the box but failed to beat goalkeeper Leopold Wahlstedt.

In the 28th minute, Patrick Dorgu came close to opening the scoring after a pass from Andrey Santos. The Danish defender controlled the ball neatly, turned, and shot, but the ball hit the post.

Manchester United's pressure finally paid off with a goal from Lacey. Receiving a through ball from Zirkzee, the academy graduate cut inside onto his left foot and curled a precise shot past the Rosenborg goalkeeper, leaving him no chance.

Just before halftime, Leny Yoro headed against the crossbar from a Mbeumo free kick. It was the second time the woodwork came to the hosts' rescue.

In the second half, Carrick brought on Harry Amass and Jaydan Kamason for Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire. Rosenborg created a few chances early on, but United quickly extinguished any hopes the Norwegian side had.

Zirkzee doubled the lead with a confident piece of play. The Dutch striker shed the defender, rounded the goalkeeper, and easily slotted the ball into an empty net.

On the 60th minute, Carrick made a series of substitutions to give opportunities to young players. United's performance did not drop. From a corner kick, Jacob Devaney pounced on a loose ball and drilled a powerful shot into the roof of the net, making it 3-0.

Young defenders Kamason and Amass then combined to create the fourth goal. Kamason delivered a precise cross to the far post, where Amass arrived to finish.

Before the match ended, Ethan Williams popped up at the far post to score the fifth and final goal, sealing a 5-0 victory. Three of the five United scorers were under 20 years old, turning the match at Lerkendal into a memorable showcase for the academy graduates.

The emphatic win over Rosenborg not only gave United their first taste of joy in pre-season preparations but also provided Carrick with positive signs regarding squad depth and the competitiveness of the young talents