Manchester United have arrived in Finland ahead of their preseason friendly against Wrexham, with head coach Michael Carrick selecting a 25-player squad for the upcoming test match.
The Red Devils have already begun preparations for the 2026/27 season, as Carrick looks to build fitness levels, improve tactical understanding, and evaluate his squad ahead of a demanding new campaign.
However, one notable absence from the traveling squad is new striker Benjamin Sesko, who has remained at Carrington to continue his individual training program.
Manchester United Begin Preseason Preparations
Manchester United officially started their preseason schedule last week, with Carrick calling back players who were not involved in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to begin preparations at the club’s training ground.
The early stages of preseason are considered crucial as United aim to regain match sharpness after the summer break. The coaching staff are focusing on improving physical condition, team chemistry, and adapting players to the tactical approach planned for the new season.
As part of their preparations, Manchester United have arranged several friendly matches against different opponents over the coming weeks.
The Wrexham fixture in Helsinki, Finland, will be one of the first opportunities for Carrick to assess his players in a competitive environment.
Benjamin Sesko Misses Wrexham Clash
Despite returning to first-team training, Benjamin Sesko has not been included in the squad traveling to Finland.
The Slovenian striker has already joined his teammates at Carrington, but United’s coaching staff believe he is not yet ready to feature in a match situation.
Sesko reportedly suffered an injury towards the end of last season, and the club does not want to rush him back too quickly during the early stages of preseason.
As a result, Carrick has decided to leave the forward in Manchester, where he will continue a personalized training program to regain full fitness.
With Sesko unavailable, United are expected to rely on other attacking options against Wrexham, including Chido Obi, Joshua Zirkzee, and Bryan Mbeumo.
Andrey Santos Ready to Make His First Appearance
One positive piece of news for Manchester United is the inclusion of new signing Andrey Santos in the squad.
The Brazilian midfielder joined his new teammates earlier this week and has already participated in training sessions with the first team.
After completing his fitness assessments, Santos was declared ready to feature and could make his first appearance in a Manchester United shirt during the friendly against Wrexham.
The 22-year-old is expected to add energy, creativity, and defensive strength to United’s midfield options.
Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans Remain Unavailable
While Andrey Santos has traveled with the squad, another new arrival, Karl Darlow, was not included in the group heading to Finland.
The club has not provided an official explanation regarding the goalkeeper’s absence.
Meanwhile, Youri Tielemans will also miss the Wrexham match. The Belgian midfielder has been given additional time off after representing his country until the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Tielemans is expected to return to training with Manchester United in August before joining the rest of the squad for full preseason preparations.
Manchester United’s Full 25-Man Squad vs Wrexham
Michael Carrick has selected the following 25 players for the friendly match against Wrexham in Helsinki:
Goalkeepers:
- Tom Heaton
- Radek Vitek
- Dermot Mee
Defenders:
- Harry Maguire
- Patrick Dorgu
- Leny Yoro
- Luke Shaw
- Ayden Heaven
- Harry Amass
- Jaydan Kamason
- Dan Armer
Midfielders:
- Mason Mount
- Andrey Santos
- Jack Fletcher
- Tyler Fletcher
- Toby Collyer
- Dan Gore
- Jacob Devaney
- Jim Thwaites
Forwards:
- Joshua Zirkzee
- Bryan Mbeumo
- Chido Obi
- Ethan Wheatley
- Shea Lacey
- Ethan Williams
Carrick Begins Building Manchester United’s New Season
The friendly against Wrexham will provide Michael Carrick with an important opportunity to assess his squad and determine which players are ready to play a major role in the upcoming season.
With several first-team stars still returning from international duty, preseason matches will be vital for improving fitness and allowing new signings to adapt to the team’s style of play.
Manchester United supporters will be eager to see how the squad develops under Carrick’s leadership as the club prepares for a new challenge in the 2026/27 campaign.
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