In a stunning pre-season upset, National League side Wrexham delivered a blow to Manchester United's preparations with a spirited performance that left fans and pundits alike in awe.
The Red Devils, still finding their rhythm under Erik ten Hag, were given a reality check by the Welsh club, who continue to ride their Hollywood-inspired wave of momentum.
Eriksen's Uncertain Future
While the match itself provided plenty of talking points, the bigger story emerging from Old Trafford concerns Danish maestro Christian Eriksen. Reports suggest the midfielder could be facing his final weeks at the club, with speculation mounting about a potential exit.
Sources close to the player indicate that Eriksen is considering his options after falling down the pecking order following United's recent midfield reinforcements. The 31-year-old playmaker, who joined on a free transfer in 2022, has reportedly attracted interest from several European clubs.
Wrexham's Hollywood Story Continues
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's Wrexham showed once again why they've become football's most talked-about story, matching their Premier League opponents for large periods of the game. The League Two newcomers demonstrated the kind of determination and organisation that suggests their fairytale rise might have more chapters to come.
Manager Phil Parkinson praised his side's "unbelievable work ethic" against top-flight opposition, while acknowledging there's still work to be done before their league campaign begins.
What This Means for United
The result will raise fresh questions about Manchester United's pre-season preparations as they look to improve on last season's disappointing campaign. With the new Premier League season just weeks away, Ten Hag will need to address defensive frailties exposed by Wrexham's energetic attack.
United fans will be hoping this serves as a wake-up call rather than a sign of things to come, especially with crucial Champions League qualification the minimum expectation this season.
