Mainoo, Rashford, Martínez to start against AC Milan, Carrick confirms

Abdullateef Fowewe

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has confirmed that Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford and Lisandro Martínez will start Saturday’s pre-season friendly against AC Milan in Wroclaw, Poland.

The trio returned to training shortly before Wednesday’s friendly against Leeds United and were not considered ready to feature in that match.

Carrick had previously said they were “not quite ready yet” but would be available for the final pre-season fixture.

Speaking ahead of the meeting with Ruben Amorim’s AC Milan, Carrick said the players would be given valuable playing time as United prepare for the new Premier League campaign.

“Kobbie Mainoo, Rashford and Martinez will all start in the game against AC Milan. We want to give minutes to those who have zero or less minutes so a strong side as we prepare for the Premier League opener,” he said.

Carrick also explained that the club had managed the trio’s workload carefully after their late return to the squad.

“Marcus, Kobbie and Licha only came back a couple of days ago so they’re not quite ready, but we can have them for the weekend,” said Carrick.

Rashford’s return is expected to attract particular attention, with the England forward set to face Amorim, the former Manchester United manager who now leads AC Milan.

Rashford has not played for United since December 2024 and spent the following period on loan at Aston Villa and Barcelona.

The forward’s relationship with Amorim deteriorated during the Portuguese coach’s time at Old Trafford, eventually contributing to Rashford’s departure from the first-team setup.

Mainoo also saw his playing time reduced under Amorim, while Martínez had a reported disagreement with the manager over his involvement after returning from injury.

For United, the match represents an important opportunity for the three players to regain fitness and build momentum before the Premier League opener.

The club’s final pre-season fixture against AC Milan is scheduled for Saturday, August 15.