Manchester United secured their first preseason victory with a commanding 5-0 win over Rosenborg. Zirkzee contributed both a goal and an assist, boosting his chances of staying at the club, while three young talents impressed and could earn promotion.

Manchester United cruised to a 5-0 victory over Rosenborg in Trondheim, Norway, securing their first preseason win. While most World Cup internationals were still absent, Zirkwee and several young talents showcased their abilities, leading the team to a comprehensive triumph. However, the absence of 15-year-old "Little Messi" Gabriel from the lineup prevented the match from reaching perfection.

Compared to the first game last week, Carrick made only one change to the starting lineup. Shea Lacey, nicknamed "Manchester United's Foden," replaced Jack Fletcher to occupy the No. 10 position. His performance proved far superior to that of the son of club legend Darren Fletcher.

The Norwegian top flight is currently in session, but Rosenborg is no longer the powerhouse that once dominated Norwegian football. They are only three points above the relegation zone and face a crucial relegation battle on Monday against Fredrikstad, who are one point behind them. Consequently, the team was unlikely to devote excessive effort to this commercial match against United.

The club's fans were unhappy about scheduling a commercial match at this time, resulting in many empty seats at the 21,000-capacity Lerkendal Stadium. Reportedly, attendance was only 50%, far below the sellout crowd that Manchester United drew in Trondheim two years ago.

As a result, the mixed lineup of new and experienced Red Devils easily dominated possession. New £50 million signing Andre Santos created the first near-goal chance, passing to Patrick Dorgu, whose angled shot hit the far post and bounced out.

However, United soon took the lead when 19-year-old Lacey scored his first goal for the senior team. The young talent from Liverpool received a through ball from Zirkzee, cut inside from his customary right flank, and curled a left-footed shot into the net, making it 1-0 against Rosenborg.

The Red Devils should have extended their lead before halftime, but Leny Yoro's header from a right-wing free kick by Mbeumo struck the crossbar. At the break, Carrick substituted veteran starters Maguire and Shaw, while newly appointed Rosenborg coach Erik Johnsson made 10 changes at halftime.

In a match where seagulls outnumbered fans, Dutch striker Zirkzee shone. After receiving a cross from left-back Harry Amass, he feigned past two defenders, then rounded the goalkeeper and slotted the ball into an empty net, making it 2-0.

Carrick made further substitutions, bringing on eight young players. Among them, 19-year-old Irish youth international midfielder Devaney quickly seized an opportunity. A right-wing corner from Jack Fletcher caused a scramble, and Jacob Devaney scored from close range, putting United 3-0 ahead.

The goal was controversial, as the ball may have hit United defender Dan Armer, but since it was a friendly without VAR, Rosenborg had to accept the concession. Rosenborg also missed a golden chance when Emil Sede's shot hit the crossbar.

The remainder of the match was dominated by young right-back Jayden Kamason. He first completed a right-back-left-back combination, crossing from the right to assist left-back Amass in tapping into an empty net, making it 4-0.

Finally, Kamason again delivered a cross from the right, allowing young winger Ethan Williams to score and seal the 5-0 final scoreline.

The Daily Mail noted after the match that this preseason performance might give Zirkzee hope of staying at the club. Owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reluctant to spend heavily in the summer window, so if Zirkzee can maintain consistent form, he could remain at Old Trafford as a backup striker, given his technical skills. Recent rumors link Juventus with an interest in Zirkzee, but they are only seeking a loan, which United is unwilling to consider.

Compared to Zirkzee, the three academy prospects from United would face no fan complaints if they were given opportunities in the new season. Lacey, who scored the first goal, particularly stands out, but he faces a huge challenge as a left-footed right winger. His competitors include Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, both high-priced international-level players.

England left-back Amass was another standout young talent for United, contributing a goal and an assist. In Carrick's thin left-back position, if he continues to impress in preseason games, he could compete to become the backup to Luke Shaw. Notably, Amass has long been considered Shaw's heir apparent.

Midfielder Devaney, who impressed on loan in the Scottish Premiership last season, could also compete for a substitute role next season. Carrick has limited options in that position, and Devaney's performances have surpassed those of former Ten Hag favorite Toby Collyer. Moreover, as seen in these two friendlies, Devaney can also fill in as a center-back. He received a personal mention from the coach after the first game.

Unfortunately, while Gabriel warmed up on the touchline to cheers from fans, Carrick ultimately did not bring him on. After the match, the young talent, who has been given the No. 77 shirt for the senior team, posted just one word on social media: "Patience." He will need to wait patiently for his first appearance, which could come next week. Next Saturday, United will travel to Solna, Sweden, to face La Liga giants Atletico Madrid, where World Cup participant Amad will return to the squad.

Carrick expressed delight with the young players' performances after the game. "When players find their rhythm and confidence, they can produce their best form. My job is to help them achieve that mindset," Carrick said. "Our senior players are gradually getting up to speed, while the young ones dare to express themselves, be authentic, and constantly strive to improve. I thought their performance in the second half was truly outstanding, and it was great to see them play like that."

Manchester United will now return to their Carrington base in Manchester for a week of training, and Carrick looks forward to the return of more first-team players.

"I think we're in a decent position at the moment," he said. "With the World Cup over, some players will gradually return. But I believe with a little patience, by taking our time and moving forward, and as I said, keeping everyone in shape, we aim to push on. Looking at the current situation, I feel we're already in a pretty good place, and the players will continue to improve as the games go on."