Andrey Santos may make his debut in Manchester United colors on Saturday, having been named in the squad for their pre-season friendly against Wrexham in Helsinki.
The 22-year-old Brazilian became Michael Carrick’s first permanent signing after transferring from Chelsea this Monday, in a deal that could reach £50 million ($67.2 million).
After a week of training at Carrington, Santos is part of a 25-man squad featuring a blend of youth and experience. Some key players, including new midfielder Youri Tielemans, remain unavailable due to participation in the World Cup.
Benjamin Sesko will not be making the trip, as he continues his recovery from a shin injury that sidelined him for the last three matches of last season.
Included in the squad are first-team regulars such as Harry Maguire, Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu, Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, Ayden Heaven, Mason Mount, and Joshua Zirkzee, alongside promising youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey.
Jaydan Kamason will look for a chance at right-back, while midfielders Jacob Devaney, Dan Gore, and Jim Thwaites, along with Tyler and Jack Fletcher, are also included in the lineup.
With Sesko absent, opportunities may arise for young forwards Chidi Obi and Ethan Wheatley, although JJ Gabriel is not part of the squad.
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow, who signed on a free transfer from Leeds earlier this week, will not make the trip, leaving veteran Tom Heaton alongside Radek Vitek and Dermot Mee in the squad.
Wrexham, set to travel to the United States next week for a series of friendlies against Leeds, Liverpool, and Sunderland, have traveled to Finland without Josh Windass and Max Cleworth.
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Manager Phil Parkinson commented, “We are where we need to be regarding fitness. Like most clubs, we have a few players returning later, with a couple of minor issues from last season. However, we are not overly concerned, and the players are in good shape. Some may not be ready for the weekend game and will train here instead.”
“Josh has been running this week; he had a minor calf issue, but he is in great condition, so there’s no need to rush him. Max has an ongoing Achilles issue, but this off-season and the gradual build-up should benefit him greatly.”
