Maguire hails Santos after Man United debut
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has praised new signing Andrey Santos following the Brazilian midfielder’s first appearance for the club in Saturday’s 1-0 pre-season defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki.
Santos, who joined United from Chelsea in a £50 million deal this summer, started the friendly and played the opening 45 minutes as manager Michael Carrick handed him his unofficial debut.
Maguire backs new signing
Maguire said the 22-year-old had already made a positive impression on his teammates despite spending only a week with the squad.
“He’s been really impressive over the first week.”
The England international believes Santos will continue to improve as he settles into life at Old Trafford.
“He’s only trained a week so it was good for him to get 45 minutes. I’m sure he really enjoyed it and I’m sure there’s so much more to come from him.”
Maguire also welcomed the arrival of Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans, who is yet to join full training after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Obviously we’ve signed Youri as well – he needs a break having played for Belgium at the World Cup.”
“I know Youri himself from playing with him for a few months at Leicester and he’s going to be a top signing, a top player and he’s going to be a great lad to have around.”
Carrick pleased with progress
United manager Michael Carrick admitted his side was still building fitness after returning for pre-season but was encouraged by several individual performances.
“It was about getting through today to be honest and looking for some positives, looking for some good things, knowing that it wasn’t going to be perfect.”
Carrick was particularly satisfied that his players came through the match without any injuries.
“I think the most important thing of all for us is that everyone came through it and in good shape and no injuries, so we can move on again and take the next step going into the next game next week.”
The former England midfielder also singled out Santos for praise after his first outing in United colours.
“But I thought there were good signs. Andrey is getting into a rhythm, getting a feeling of it again. So it was good to see him out on the pitch.”