Manchester United Prepares for Wrexham Clash in Helsinki Amidst Squad Changes
New signings and World Cup absences shape Red Devils' line-up for Finnish friendly.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
Manchester United will face Wrexham in a pre-season friendly at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium in Finland on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with a significantly altered squad.
Players who participated in the recent World Cup remain unavailable for Manchester United. Their absence opens significant opportunities for other squad members to stake their claim.
This situation compels Carrick to integrate new talent and assess his roster's depth.
New signing Andrey Santos, who completed his transfer from Chelsea earlier in the week in a deal potentially worth £50 million, is available for selection.
He joins Bryan Mbeumo, Joshua Zirkzee, and Chido Obi in the squad; all four will feature prominently against Wrexham.
Santos will make his debut, with many anticipating his inclusion from the start alongside other younger players.
Santos will make his debut, with many anticipating his inclusion from the start alongside other younger players.
Another new arrival, goalkeeper Karl Darlow, was not named in the squad; he remains in Manchester recovering from a recent procedure.
Midfielder Youri Tielemans is also absent, currently on a post-World Cup break. Benjamin Sesko will not travel due to ongoing injury recovery.
Marcus Rashford is likewise on a post-World Cup break; his return to pre-season is anticipated around August 10th.
Furthermore, JJ Gabriel has not been included in the 26-man squad for the Helsinki fixture, having undergone one-to-one training sessions with Jack Hunter.
Michael Carrick, confirmed as the Red Devils’ permanent manager after a successful interim stint, previously led his old employers back to the Champions League for the first time since 2023.
His strategic vision brought in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to bolster the midfield. Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer to challenge first-choice goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
The released Manchester United line-up features Heaton in goal. Yoro, Heaven, Maguire, and Shaw anchor the backline.
Further up the pitch, Mount and Santos anchor the midfield, while Mbeumo, J. Fletcher, Dorgu, and Zirkzee lead the attack.
This formation places new acquisitions and younger prospects within a competitive match setting.
Tyler Fletcher, who was part of the Scotland World Cup squad but did not see any minutes, has rejoined the team.
Tyrone Marshall indicates United will field two distinct teams in Helsinki, with each getting 45 minutes of play.
United will field two distinct teams in Helsinki, with each getting 45 minutes of play.
This approach maximizes player assessment and fitness building across the entire squad.
With Bruno Fernandes missing, Santos fills a crucial creative role. Sesko's absence provides Obi an opportunity to establish himself as the Slovenian international's deputy.
Steven Railston highlights Lacey, with coaches believing he can contribute to the senior squad this season.
UK viewers can watch the match on MUTV for a yearly subscription of £29.99, or stream it via the MUTV app or club website.
Meanwhile, Wrexham supporters can purchase a single match streaming pass from their club's official website for £4.99, ensuring broad access to the fixture.
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