Manchester United suffered a 4-2 loss to AC Milan in a pre-season finale that exposed weaknesses in Michael Carrick's team.
The defeat, which came just a week before their Premier League opener at Hull City, highlighted issues with United's defense and midfield, particularly when AC Milan switched play to the right. Luke Shaw had too much space to cover and not enough support, while the gaps between defense and midfield were not adequately covered.
AC Milan's Ruben Amorim, a former United boss, will be keeping a close eye on the Red Devils as they prepare for the new season. The Portuguese tactician's side was led by Amorim, who made several key decisions during the match.
One of the key issues for United was their inability to cope with AC Milan's quick transitions. The Italian side capitalized on this weakness, scoring three of their four goals in close-range efforts. Replays suggested that one of these goals may have been offside.
The loss will give Michael Carrick plenty to think about as he prepares to face Hull City in their Premier League opener. The United manager acknowledged the defeat, stating, "We are disappointed with today. We didn't play very well. There are no excuses."
Marcus Rashford made his first appearance of pre-season for United, wearing the vacant number nine shirt. The 28-year-old England attacker looked relaxed and was involved in some positive play, including a brilliant piece of skill that took him past an opponent. His reintroduction was solid, if not spectacular, and will likely give Carrick some food for thought as he considers the striker's future at the club.
The transfer deadline on September 1st will bring clarity to Rashford's situation, but for now, it remains uncertain. United officials have made it clear that the number nine shirt he wore in Poland was not permanent, in a bid to stave off any complaints from fans tempted to buy a replica.
Manchester United's pre-season has been largely positive, but this defeat will give Carrick some concerns ahead of the new season. The team's defense and midfield will need to be improved if they are to compete with the best teams in the Premier League.
The Red Devils will now focus on their Premier League opener against Hull City, where they will look to put this defeat behind them and start the season on a positive note. The transfer deadline will also be a key period for United, who will look to strengthen their squad before the new season gets underway.
Source: Yahoo Sports