Andrey Santos showed plenty of promise on his Manchester United debut despite the club’s 1-0 pre-season defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki on Saturday.
The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder, who recently joined United on a deal that runs until 2031, started the match and played the opening 45 minutes, making an encouraging first impression in a red shirt.
Santos was composed in possession, completing 93 per cent of his passes. He also created two chances and contributed four defensive actions in a solid all-round display as he began adapting to his new team.
The midfielder arrived at Old Trafford after leaving Chelsea, having enjoyed an excellent loan spell at Strasbourg where he scored 11 goals and provided five assists.
Carrick was pleased with what he saw from Santos, particularly his understanding with fellow midfielder Mason Mount.
“There’s loads of little positives to take from the game,” Carrick said.
“I thought Andrey and Mason did some really good things and connected really well. I could see some positives there.”
The United boss admitted the attacking side of the team’s play is still developing after only a short period of pre-season training, but expects improvements as fitness and sharpness increase.
“At the top end of the pitch, just because it is a week in, those sharp little movements and bright moments that you are looking for, they come as you progress through the weeks of training,” Carrick said.
“That is what it is. There were good signs from Andrey on his first one, he’s getting in the rhythm and feel of it again, so it was good to see him in a red shirt.”
