Manchester United are preparing for another major test in their pre-season campaign, with head coach Michael Carrick selecting a 22-man squad for the upcoming clash against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The Red Devils are scheduled to play their fourth pre-season fixture tonight, facing the reigning European champions in Gothenburg, Sweden. The match represents another opportunity for Carrick to assess his squad before the start of the new competitive season.
United have made an encouraging start to their preparations, winning their last two pre-season matches. Their most recent victory came against Atletico Madrid, giving the team plenty of confidence heading into the meeting with PSG.
With the French giants providing a significant test, Carrick has decided to bring several first-team players to Sweden, including some familiar faces who have only recently returned to the squad.
Bruno Fernandes Returns to the Manchester United Squad
One of the biggest developments ahead of the PSG match is the return of several players who were unavailable earlier in pre-season because of their participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Bruno Fernandes is among the most notable names to return. The Manchester United captain has now been declared fit and is expected to be involved against PSG.
United will also welcome back Noussair Mazraoui, while new signing Youri Tielemans is another player available for the fixture.
All three players have completed their post-World Cup preparations and are considered ready to contribute as Carrick continues to build his strongest possible lineup.
Their availability could significantly strengthen United’s options, particularly in midfield and defence.
Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens Miss Out
Despite returning to first-team training, not every player is ready to feature in Gothenburg.
Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens have both been training with the senior squad, but neither player is believed to have reached full match fitness.
As a result, Carrick has decided not to rush either player into action against PSG.
Their absence means United will need to rely on the available squad, with the coaching staff continuing to monitor their progress ahead of the next stages of pre-season.
Manchester United Continue to Give Youngsters Opportunities
Carrick has also maintained his commitment to giving Manchester United’s young players valuable first-team experience during pre-season.
Several academy prospects have impressed during the early stages of the campaign and have been rewarded with places in the travelling squad for the PSG encounter.
Shea Lacey and Tyler Fletcher, who have both featured regularly during pre-season, will travel to Sweden with the senior squad.
Defenders Harry Amass and Dan Armer have also been selected and could receive further minutes as Carrick looks to test his defensive options.
Meanwhile, young goalkeeper Fred Heath has been included because Lammens is not yet ready to play.
For the academy players, a match against PSG provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience against some of Europe’s top-level talent.
Carrick Looks to Maintain United’s Positive Pre-Season Form
Manchester United’s encouraging results have created a positive atmosphere around the squad ahead of the new season.
After securing consecutive victories, Carrick will be hoping his team can maintain that momentum against PSG.
The fixture is particularly useful because it allows the manager to test his players against a side accustomed to competing at the highest level of European football.
The return of Fernandes and Mazraoui, combined with the arrival of Tielemans, gives Carrick additional options as he continues to establish his preferred tactical approach.
At the same time, the involvement of academy players highlights the depth available within the United squad.
Full Manchester United Squad for PSG Clash
Michael Carrick has selected the following 22 players for the trip to Sweden:
Goalkeepers:
Tom Heaton, Dermot Mee, Fred Heath
Defenders:
Harry Amass, Dan Armer, Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot, Ayden Heaven, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro
Midfielders:
Bruno Fernandes, Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fletcher, Mason Mount, Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans
Forwards:
Amad, Shea Lacey, Bryan Mbeumo, Joshua Zirkzee
PSG Clash Offers Major Test for Manchester United
The encounter with PSG could prove to be one of United’s most demanding pre-season fixtures so far.
While the primary objective remains preparing the squad for the competitive season, facing the European champions gives Carrick an opportunity to assess how his players perform against elite opposition.
The return of Bruno Fernandes will be particularly important, with the captain expected to provide leadership and creativity in the attacking midfield area.
With experienced stars, new arrivals and promising academy players all involved, Manchester United will be hoping to continue their strong pre-season run and secure another positive result against PSG in Gothenburg.
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