Cristian Orozco scored his first goal for Manchester United's under-21s in a 5-0 friendly win over Aston Villa, making an immediate impression after joining the club this summer.
Orozco's arrival and early impact
The 18-year-old midfielder moved from Colombian side Fortaleza earlier this month after agreeing to join United last year, but was forced to wait until turning 18 to complete the transfer. He has been placed with the U21s to settle into life in a new country.
In the behind-closed-doors friendly, Chido Obi also scored, while Ashton Missin netted twice and Amir Ibragimov was also on the scoresheet.
Carrick's focus on youth
All of United's young players will be hoping to catch the eye of Michael Carrick in the 2026/27 season. Unlike his predecessor Ruben Amorim, Carrick has a reputation for promoting academy players, and pre-season has shown that opportunities are available.
Shea Lacey, Ethan Williams, Jacob Devaney and JJ Gabriel have all been given chances this summer. However, Orozco will need to be patient for a first-team spot, with central midfield highly competitive.
Midfield competition and Orozco's qualities
United have spent a combined £85million this summer to bring in Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, and Carrick still wants another midfielder and a left-back.
Orozco is primarily a defensive midfielder and has leadership experience, having captained Colombia's under-18s side. He told ESPN Colombia before joining: "I know my strengths are my physicality and my technique. I have those qualities and, with the gift God gave me, I don't think it will be too difficult. But everything is about adapting. I'm very young and that's what I'll need to do."
He added: "I want to arrive and learn as quickly as possible. That's what's required so I can show my level and everything I'm capable of. I want to adapt to everything that comes my way as quickly as possible."
Orozco also said: "I expect to learn a lot of English. When I was there, I realised just how, how important it is."
Upcoming fixtures
United's first team play their final pre-season friendly against Amorim's AC Milan on Saturday, before opening their Premier League campaign against newly-promoted Hull on August 22.
