Michael Carrick believes Manchester United’s board continue to back him, although the manager admits he must start winning matches to keep his job. Carrick also denied there is a toxic culture at the club, following previous claims made by former manager Erik ten Hag.
Upcoming Fixture and Pressure on Results
Carrick’s squad travels to Como for their third Champions League fixture, seeking their third victory of the season across all competitions. A 1-1 draw against Leeds left Manchester United 13th in the Premier League standings after securing only one win so far. Their other victory came last month with a 4-0 home triumph over Sabah of Azerbaijan in the Champions League.
When asked by reporters if he feels supported by the club’s executive team, the 45-year-old manager stated that he enjoys a strong relationship with everyone at the club while acknowledging the necessity of winning football matches. Carrick added that he has not asked the hierarchy for reassurance, noting that his role and responsibilities are clear.
Erik ten Hag’s Claims on Culture and Cristiano Ronaldo
Erik ten Hag, who managed United from April 2022 until October 2024, alleged that the club executive failed to support him on disciplinary matters and perpetuated a harmful environment. Speaking to the Athletic, Ten Hag stated that leadership continued and fueled a toxic culture by giving power to the players.
Ten Hag also stated that Cristiano Ronaldo let the team down during the forward’s second spell at the club, which included walking out twice. The former manager questioned Ronaldo’s commitment, recalling that the Portuguese player refused to complete a training run following a 4-0 defeat at Brentford early in his tenure.
In response to these remarks, Carrick reported that he has not encountered any toxicity at United. He praised the players and staff for their dedication and expressed complete satisfaction with the squad’s togetherness.
Unfulfilled Promises and Squad Challenges
Ten Hag claimed that despite winning the FA Cup in 2024, the owners broke promises regarding loyalty, backing, and communication made during talks that preceded his contract extension. He cited the sale of Scott McTominay despite his explicit objection as a source of embarrassment and disappointment.
Asked if Ten Hag’s criticisms raised concerns, Carrick declined to comment on his predecessor’s views, pointing instead to stable operations alongside director of football Jason Wilcox, chief executive Omar Berrada, and the owners.
For the upcoming match in Como, Carrick will be missing nine players due to suspension, illness, and injuries. Leny Yoro is suspended, Ayden Heaven is ill, and Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martínez, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Sesko, Patrick Dorgu, and Manuel Ugarte are sidelined with injuries. The absence of five frontline defenders may force Carrick to use an unfamiliar backline featuring Matthijs de Ligt, returning from a long-term back problem, or 19-year-old left-back Harry Amass.
A severe weather warning for lightning and rain has been issued for Como ahead of the scheduled 5.45pm kickoff.
Source: Football | The Guardian
