Man Utd beaten by Wrexham in pre-season opener | OneFootball

Manchester United began their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki.

The only goal of the afternoon arrived six minutes before half-time when Sam Smith finished from close range after Lewis O'Brien burst down the left and drilled a low cross into the six-yard box. United's defence switched off, allowing the striker to steal in unmarked and tap past Tom Heaton.

Carrick named a strong starting XI, including summer signing Andrey Santos, who made his debut in midfield alongside Mason Mount. Bryan Mbeumo, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Leny Yoro also featured, but United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities throughout the opening 45 minutes.

Michael Carrick changed most of his side at the break, giving several academy players valuable minutes. Ethan Wheatley came closest to finding an equaliser, but his effort was well saved by Danny Ward as Wrexham held firm.

United looked short of sharpness for long spells, although that was to be expected with a number of senior players, including Bruno Fernandes, Youri Tielemans and Benjamin Sesko, unavailable following the World Cup or injury.