Rashford returns in Manchester United's loss to AC Milan

Manchester United finished their pre-season campaign with a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan in Wroclaw, just a week before their Premier League opener against Hull City. Michael Carrick's side took the lead twice against Rubén Amorím's team but couldn't hold on, according to BBC Sport.

The standout moment was Marcus Rashford's return. The England winger made his first appearance since December 2024, when he was effectively sidelined by Amorím and subsequently loaned to Aston Villa and Barcelona. Carrick brought him on in the 60th minute as a substitute for Patrick Dorgu. His showing was solid rather than spectacular—a couple of neat touches by the corner flag, an early foul, and a warm reception from United supporters who had missed him.

Defensive gaps exposed

Three of Milan's four goals came from close range, with replays suggesting one may have been offside. Luke Shaw struggled on the left wing when Milan switched play, leaving too much space with insufficient midfield cover. The gaps between defence and midfield weren't huge but weren't adequately filled, and Andrey Santos' inexperience was exposed.

Carrick was candid in his assessment: "We are disappointed with today. We didn't play very well. There are no excuses." On the positive side, Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Lisandro Martínez all completed their first full pre-season runs without fresh injury concerns. Mason Mount remains sidelined following a foot issue in Gothenburg. The real test comes next week when the Premier League campaign begins.