Mbeumo scored twice as Manchester United came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1! One player secured a spot for the new season, and the "Little Messi" made his debut.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at the Strawberry Arena in Stockholm, Sweden, earning their second consecutive preseason victory. Mbeumo scored twice in the second half, and 15-year-old "Little Messi" Gabriel (JJ Gabriel) came off the bench to make his senior debut.

Due to the return of World Cup internationals, Carrick made notable changes to United's starting lineup, especially in attack. Zirkzee was on the bench, with Mbeumo playing as the center-forward. Amad Diallo took over his original right-wing position, while academy prodigy Shea Lacey continued as the number 10, and Patrick Dorgu occupied the left flank. The midfield and defense remained unchanged, with 40-year-old veteran Tom Heaton in goal.

Although preseason matches don't indicate major issues, United's lineup choices certainly hint at the direction for the new season. Zirkzee's nine goals in two seasons at the club have proven that he is not a true center-forward or finisher. Therefore, if no new striker is signed, when Sesko is unavailable, the Red Devils are more likely to employ a false nine formation.

The crowd of 25,000 was not particularly enthusiastic, and the television broadcast could clearly hear the players' shouts on the pitch, which said it all. United also started the match very slowly. In the 5th minute, Atletico took a short corner on the left, Koke sent a cross-shot that was glanced into the far corner by Arno Ortiz at the near post, leaving United 0-1 down.

This goal highlighted the defensive deficiencies in United's midfield and backline. The team still needs a full-back, as well as a third defensive midfielder capable of shielding the defense. Andre Santos is not yet ready to serve as a barrier in front of the backline.

After conceding, United had two good chances to equalize. Unfortunately, Luke Shaw's volley was too central and saved by Oblak, while Mbeumo's header from a right-wing cross just went wide of the far post.

Just before half-time, Heaton made a quick reaction save to deny a close-range shot from Atletico, preventing United from falling further behind. United went into the dressing room trailing by one goal, but Carrick's side had a significant advantage: their training camp and match schedule were more advanced.

This was already United's third summer match, while Atletico had only played one training game against Getafe before this, making it their first official preseason friendly. Consequently, the La Liga side generally had only about 60 minutes of fitness, whereas most of the Red Devils' players could already play 70 minutes, or even the full 90!

Carrick made only one change at half-time. Amad had only just returned from his World Cup break this week, so he could only play 45 minutes. United's incomplete attack still lacked threat from open play, but Lacey, nicknamed "United's Phil Foden," won a penalty through his individual skill. He is small in stature but quick-footed, which earned him a foul from Atletico's goalscorer Ortiz inside the box.

Mbeumo stepped up and converted the penalty with ease. He was Brentford's designated penalty taker in the past, with a high conversion rate from 12 yards. United leveled the score at 1-1 and then completely took control of the match.

Atletico's fitness issues became even more apparent. A defensive passing error allowed substitute Jack Fletcher to press, win the ball, and drive to the byline for a cross. Although the ball took a deflection off a defender, it still fell to Mbeumo, who fired it into the net for his second goal, putting United 2-1 ahead.

Regarding Mbeumo's performance, Carrick commented: "He is ready now. You can see it from his movements – he waits patiently for the right moment rather than forcing things. Against Atletico, he did more than just score; it was a strategic understanding. Our plan for next season is clear: regular tactics, mutual trust, and creating attacking space."

Last season, Mbeumo scored five goals while playing as a center-forward, and United won all five of those matches. However, his performances in the number 9 role serve as a significant blow to Zirkzee, who may need to consider a return to Serie A. Several clubs, including Juventus, are interested in a loan deal.

In the 82nd minute, the new academy "crown prince" Gabriel replaced Mbeumo, wearing the number 77 shirt, but he didn't have a particularly standout performance. He was joined in making his debut by midfielder Jim Sweets. Carrick explained: "They got their first taste of playing for us. It's great to have the opportunity to give these young players a chance to showcase themselves."

The standout academy player in this match was undoubtedly 19-year-old Lacey. When Carrick substituted him, he not only shook his hand but also patted his face. The English "short-legged tiger" has been confirmed to stay in the first team for the new season, and he could be a useful wildcard.

United almost conceded a late equalizer. Atletico's new signing, Jørgensen, had a shot from inside the box that hit the far post, sparing the Red Devils. They eventually won 2-1, and captain Maguire lifted the "Qualcomm Snapdragon Cup." For manager Carrick, securing a victory after falling behind early was more meaningful than the previous big win over Rosenborg.

Carrick said after the match: "It's great to see how well the players get along. They have a strong team spirit and good camaraderie. This relationship is not forced or fake; it's completely natural. They enjoy each other's company and look out for one another. Today they did it again."

Another player's time at United may also be coming to an end. Last season's second-choice goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, was named as a substitute for the match but actually sat in the stands. United have already signed his replacement, 35-year-old Welsh international goalkeeper Karl Darlow. If Bayindir does not transfer, he will have no games to play.