Manchester United prepare for AC Milan friendly after managerial changes

By Joel Kavanagh — 14 August 2026 — 3 min read

Manchester United are set to face AC Milan in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, bringing together former colleagues under new circumstances. The match in Poland will see Michael Carrick, United’s head coach, meet Ruben Amorim, who now manages AC Milan.

A year ago, Marcus Rashford was at Barcelona, Carrick had been dismissed by Middlesbrough, and Amorim was preparing for his first full season at Old Trafford. Now, they converge with different roles. Rashford has returned to United under Carrick’s management, his former teammate and captain.

Amorim, who was dismissed five months into the previous season, took over at AC Milan this summer. He aims to secure a victory against his former club to conclude a pre-season without a win. Carrick’s measured approach in his role contrasts with the reported events during Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford.

Tactical Shifts Under Carrick

Amorim’s refusal to adjust his tactics was a notable aspect of his time at United. He reportedly maintained a preferred formation, even stating that he would not change his 3-4-3 system. This inflexibility was said to be a factor in his departure, particularly when squad numbers were reduced due to the Africa Cup of Nations.

Reports suggest similar issues are emerging in Amorim’s early days at AC Milan, with suggestions of player confusion regarding system adjustments. In contrast, Carrick’s initial match in charge, a Manchester derby, showcased a more fluid style, resulting in a 2-0 victory over Manchester City.

United’s forward-thinking approach has continued into pre-season. New signing Andrey Santos has focused on making forward passes, and Bryan Mbeumo has performed effectively in a central role, disrupting opposing defences. Bruno Fernandes has benefited from Carrick’s arrival, playing in his preferred No 10 position.

Renewed Optimism at Old Trafford

The atmosphere at Old Trafford has reportedly shifted under Carrick. Amorim’s public statements, which sometimes included talk of difficulties and the team being described negatively, contributed to a pessimistic mood around the club. Carrick, however, is credited with fostering a more positive environment.

When Amorim was dismissed, United were close to a Champions League spot. Carrick guided the team to secure a place in the competition, a goal Amorim had previously suggested his side was not prepared for. Heading into the new season, there is a sense of optimism, with players like Leny Yoro and Mbeumo expressing ambitions to win the league.

Carrick believes in his team’s potential for the current season, a year after the previous management’s period saw United reportedly close to a relegation battle. His approach appears to differ significantly from his predecessor’s.

Opportunities for Redemption

Under Amorim, there was a perception that players who fell out of favour had limited opportunities to regain their place. While this stance aimed to address squad character, it affected players like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. Garnacho, after a period at Chelsea, is now on loan at Aston Villa.

Amorim’s handling of Mainoo has been questioned, as the midfielder became a key player under Carrick and was nominated for PFA Young Player of the Year, despite not starting a league game until January. The situation with Rashford also remains a point of discussion.

Rashford’s ability was not in doubt, but Amorim reportedly had concerns about his general conduct. Carrick, however, has offered Rashford an opportunity to return, reflecting a management style that appears open to second chances. The pre-season match between Manchester United and AC Milan is scheduled for Saturday, 14 August.

Source: skysports.com