Michael Carrick Names 23-Man Squad for Snapdragon Cup

Michael Carrick has laid his cards on the table for Stockholm.

The Manchester United manager has named a 23-man squad to face Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid in the Snapdragon Cup on Saturday, a pre-season test that looks far more serious than a gentle summer run-out.

This is a group that blends big‑name experience with raw, ambitious talent. It is also a clear early look at how Carrick wants his United to move into the new campaign.

Mount, Santos and a Midfield Under Inspection

Mason Mount is in, a central figure in the travelling party and expected to anchor much of United’s creative work. Alongside him is summer signing Andrey Santos, whose inclusion hints at meaningful minutes rather than a watching brief.

They are joined in midfield by Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fletcher and Jim Thwaites – a young core that will be pushed hard against Atletico’s snarling press. Carrick is not hiding them. He is throwing them into one of the most physically and tactically demanding environments pre-season can offer.

Maguire, Shaw and a New Defensive Look

At the back, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw provide the senior spine, but the names around them tell the real story of this squad.

Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, Dermot Mee and Radek Vitek form a four-strong goalkeeping unit, with Bayindir expected to stake his claim as the long-term option. In front of them, the defensive list is laced with youth: Harry Amass, Dan Armer, Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, Ayden Heaven, Jaydan Kamason and Leny Yoro all travel.

It is a bold defensive mix. Maguire and Shaw bring authority; the rest bring energy, legs and a chance to impress on a big stage against an Atletico side that punishes every lapse.

Attack Full of Promise

Up front, the squad bristles with attacking variety. Amad is there, looking to turn flashes of promise into consistency. Joshua Zirkzee, one of the most intriguing forwards in the group, will draw plenty of attention as he looks to knit United’s play together in the final third.

JJ Gabriel, Shea Lacey, Bryan Mbeumo and Ethan Williams round out a forward line built for movement and invention rather than pure weight of reputation. For some, this is a shop window. For others, it is a chance to prove they belong in Carrick’s plans when the real games start.

A Proper Test in Stockholm

The meeting with Atletico Madrid in Stockholm is part of the Snapdragon Cup, with kick-off set for 14:00 BST. Against Simeone’s side, nothing comes easy. Shape, discipline and mentality are all examined, even in July or August.

Carrick’s selection makes one thing clear: this is not just fitness work. It is an audition, a stress test, and for more than a few names on that team sheet, it could be the day that decides whether they stay on the fringes or step into the heart of Manchester United’s season.