Leny Yoro enjoyed a right‑back cameo in United’s win over Atletico.
Manchester United turned the tables on Atletico Madrid in Stockholm on Saturday, securing a 2‑1 comeback victory. Bryan Mbeumo netted both goals for the English side, while the half‑filled 50,000‑seat Strawberry Arena witnessed United finally break a run of five unbeaten matches against the Spanish club.
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Pre‑season rotation gives young players a chance
United’s manager Michael Carrick used the friendly to test squad depth, slotting Yoro at right‑back despite his natural centre‑back role. The French defender, who started the previous season as a first‑choice centre‑half, said he relished the experience but confirmed his preferred position remains in central defence.
"I hope I'm not going to be injured this pre‑season and can keep improving," Yoro told reporters after the match.
— Leny Yoro, Manchester United defender
Fifteen‑year‑old JJ Gabriel also made his debut minutes after coming on, underscoring Carrick’s willingness to give youngsters a taste of senior football. The match marked United’s first win over Atletico after four competitive defeats and one friendly, highlighting the impact of fresh legs in pre‑season.
Transfer targets aim to shore up defensive options
With United returning to the Champions League for the first time since 2023, the club faces a shortage of established full‑backs – two right‑backs and one left‑back are listed as regulars. To address the gap, United are reportedly monitoring Lewis Hall, the 21‑year‑old Newcastle United defender, whose agent also represents former manager Eddie Howe.
High transfer fees have stalled United’s summer business, a situation compounded by the lack of sales after Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte’s World Cup injury and the stalled departure of forward Joshua Zirkzee, who still has suitors in Italy.
In midfield, Carrick continues to rely on experienced centre‑backs Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt, while 19‑year‑old Ayden Heaven impressed when thrust into a defensive role against Chelsea in April. Mason Mount, still battling injury since his 2023 move from Chelsea, has been among United’s best pre‑season performers, alongside new signing Andrey Santos from West London.
United’s next fixture, a Champions League clash with Paris Saint‑Germain in Gothenburg next Saturday, is already sold out, setting the stage for a demanding start to the campaign.
Frequently asked questions
How did Leny Yoro perform at right-back in United's win over Atletico Madrid?
Yoro delivered a solid right‑back cameo, helping United keep a clean sheet after the comeback and showing versatility despite his natural centre‑back role.
Who scored the goals for Manchester United in the 2-1 comeback against Atletico Madrid?
Bryan Mbeumo netted both goals for United in the 2‑1 victory over Atletico Madrid.
Why did Michael Carrick use Leny Yoro at right-back in the pre‑season friendly?
Carrick rotated the squad to test depth, slotting Yoro at right‑back to give the young defender experience while assessing options ahead of the new season.
Which full‑back is United reportedly monitoring to strengthen their defense before the Champions League?
United are reportedly monitoring 21‑year‑old Lewis Hall from Newcastle United as a potential full‑back signing.
