Manchester United came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at the Strawberry Arena in Solna, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring twice for Michael Carrick's side. The victory also saw 15-year-old JJ Gabriel make his first senior appearance for the club.
Atletico took the lead after just five minutes when Arnau Ortiz's cross drifted into the net at the far post. United controlled much of the first half, with Luke Shaw, Mbeumo and Amad going close, but they trailed at the break.
Seven minutes into the second half, Shea Lacey won a penalty with quick footwork, and Mbeumo converted. Jack Fletcher then intercepted an errant pass and set up Mbeumo for the winning goal.
Lacey stakes a claim
Shea Lacey operated in the No.10 role behind Mbeumo and looked at home. The 19-year-old won United's penalty with slick feet and gave Carrick something to consider as he builds a squad for the Premier League and Champions League. It was only a friendly, but Lacey looked ready to be involved.
Mount continues to shine
Mason Mount impressed again in midfield alongside Andrey Santos. The 27-year-old linked the midfield and attack with smart turns and one-twos, and has been trusted by Carrick as a leader. Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo have yet to return, and Mount is delivering in pre-season.
Exit hints around the squad
Tom Heaton and Amad were brought into the starting line-up, with Amad the first World Cup star to return. That saw Mbeumo move into a forward position. The omissions of Radek Vitek and Joshua Zirkzee raised eyebrows. Vitek has spoken publicly of his desire to leave for first-team football, while Zirkzee has been linked with Juventus. Heaton is unlikely to play a significant role this season, and Carrick appears to be planning for the future. Amad was replaced at half-time by Jack Fletcher, and Zirkzee came on with 17 minutes remaining.
Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir could also be on his way out. He completed an individual training session before the match amid reports Celta Vigo have agreed a deal for him.
Backline still a concern
United were mostly untroubled but lacked conviction when Atletico entered the area. The goal conceded was described as a 'freak' goal, yet no United defender attempted to meet the cross. Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven stayed grounded as the ball bounced past Tom Heaton. More defenders are set to return, including Noussair Mazraoui, Diogo Dalot and Lisandro Martinez, while Leny Yoro may not need to play at full-back once the season starts. Yoro showed ambition going forward, but his end product was inconsistent.
JJ Gabriel makes his debut
While Toby Collyer, Jacob Devaney, Dan Gore and Chido Obi are set to play for the under-21s against Altrincham, JJ Gabriel remained with the first team. The 15-year-old was named on the bench and was introduced for the final 10 minutes to make his senior debut. United will hope it is the first of many appearances.
Carrick steps up preparation
Carrick made just one substitution at half-time, while Atletico made four, as the head coach looks to build a match-fit group with three weeks until United face Hull. Key figures such as Bruno Fernandes have yet to return. Before the game, Carrick said: "We're just looking for improvement and signs of improvements, little bit of fitness, quality, technique, some connections and links in the team to keep moving forward in the right direction. We've had a good spell in these three weeks and the boys are ready for another game today." It was not an exhilarating display, but Carrick will be encouraged by his team's pressing and attacking patterns.
