Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek has been hailed for his performance against Rosenborg.

The Red Devils started their pre-season campaign in Trondheim, Norway and fell to defeat at the Lerkendal Stadion. Noah Emmanuel Jean Holm scored the only goal of the game in the 93rd minute as United put in a frustrating performance that saw Vitek stand out.

The Czech Republic youth international spent time on loan at Accrington Stanley last season, and was the only one of Erik ten Hag’s stars to complete 90 minutes on Monday evening. Vitek was the standout player in the defeat as a youthful United team were put under pressure by their opponents and landed just five shots in comparison to the hosts’ 22.

“We are disappointed as I feel like we should always aim for a win, the manager said we don’t play friendlies as it is in our DNA,” Vitek said following the game. “We should demand more. We are building up now as it is only our first week of pre-season, so we are still waiting for some more boys [to arrive back] from their internationals. But as I said, in the end, all that matters is winning.”

The goalkeeper was pleased to be handed the chance to impress by the Dutchman. “It is really good that the young lads are getting the opportunity as when you step on the field you have to show yourself,” added Vitek.

“It is a big opportunity in front of a lot of people that are watching you. You have to demand the best from yourself.”

The 20-year-old made an impression on supporters in his outing, despite the disappointing result. Vitek was labelled a ‘gem’ as some fans suggested he could challenge Andre Onana this season.

Radek Vitek of Manchester United in action ( 
Image:
Ash Donelon)
“I mentioned this earlier about Vitek, I was admiring him in the first half. He’s definitely a gem,” said one user on X. “Promote him to be our new No.2 then!!!” said another.

“Hope he can be our next No.1 without us having to go buy someone else,” one person pleaded. “He might be the future,” called another as a further user suggest he was “Better than Onana”.

“Incredible shot-stopping skills with a commanding presence and great GK positioning,” added another, “Sort out his ball distribution and we will have a worthy competitor for Onana.”

Praise also came from United treble-winner Ronny Johnsen. The Red Devils legend said: “The saves he had were very important and, also for a goalkeeper, to come in and make saves like this in your first game is important. He has stood up and made himself big – which he is.”