Manchester United finally kick-started their 2026-27 campaign in style, storming past Ipswich Town at Old Trafford yesterday.
The Red Devils exploded into life after the break, scoring four second-half goals to seal a thrilling 5-2 victory.
After the disappointment of their opening-day defeat to Hull City, returning to winning ways was exactly what United needed.
Manager Michael Carrick will have been delighted with the result, but his team selection also appeared to send two clear transfer messages to INEOS.
With less than two days remaining before the summer transfer window closes, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his recruitment team have precious little time to act.
Joshua Zirkzee ignored again
Even when United were desperately searching for goals against the Tigers, Carrick chose not to turn to Zirkzee.
Many expected the Dutchman to finally get his opportunity yesterday, particularly with United comfortably leading 4-1 in the 68th minute. However, he remained an unused substitute.
It is clear that the 25-year-old is firmly outside Carrick’s plans, with intense transfer speculation surrounding the striker and several Serie A clubs circling.
United now need to move Zirkzee on while also finding a quality centre-forward capable of providing cover and competition for Benjamin Sesko.
Noussair Mazraoui and Leny Yoro as full-backs
The Red Devils were forced into an unusual defensive reshuffle for the final 15 minutes, with Leny Yoro operating at right-back and Noussair Mazraoui filling in on the left.
Yoro showed during pre-season that he can handle a full-back role, but his natural position remains centre-back, while Mazraoui is far more comfortable on the right than on the opposite flank.
Both players should be viewed as emergency solutions rather than genuine rotational options for Carrick.
Luke Shaw was bullied by Ipswich winger Abdul Fatawu in the build-up to the opening goal.
INEOS must sign a capable left-back who could share the workload with Shaw, freeing up Mazraoui to rotate with Diogo Dalot on the right.
Stats from Fotmob.com
