“No negativity”: Carrick remains confident at Manchester United despite a difficult start.

Manchester United are experiencing their worst league start in four decades, but manager Michael Carrick insists he is enjoying the challenge and remains confident that his team can turn things around. United travelled to Madrid ahead of their Champions League clash with Atlético Madrid without Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw, who both suffered knocks during the weekend draw against Tottenham. Acknowledging that his side were in a difficult position, Carrick promised that they would respond with determination.

Despite earning only six Premier League points so far and suffering an early Carabao Cup exit against Brighton at Old Trafford, Carrick said he did not feel external pressure. He maintained that his focus was on improving the team rather than reacting to criticism, stressing that setbacks were part of the process of building a successful side. He also pointed to Arsenal’s struggles during Mikel Arteta’s first two seasons as an example of how patience can eventually lead to success.

Carrick admitted that United had fallen short of expectations but urged everyone at the club to remain focused on the long-term objective. He acknowledged that poor results naturally generate calls for major changes, but insisted that such reactions would not influence his approach. In his view, the team must confront its problems, learn from them and remain committed to its development.

The United manager also expressed strong confidence in his players, particularly captain Bruno Fernandes, despite the midfielder’s recent struggles. Carrick revealed that Fernandes had been playing through a fitness issue but said he was now almost fully recovered and looked sharp in training. He praised the captain’s commitment and predicted that he would continue to make significant contributions to the club.

Carrick said difficult periods could reveal which players and staff were genuinely committed to Manchester United’s long-term success. He also acknowledged the supporters’ desire for better performances, insisting that the team had a responsibility to give them something to celebrate. He remained optimistic that the club could overcome its current difficulties through hard work, unity and determination.

Although United’s domestic campaign has been disappointing, they began their Champions League campaign with a convincing victory over Sabah last month. Carrick hopes that result can provide a foundation for improvement as his side prepares to face Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium in the second round of the Champions League league phase.

Reiterating his enthusiasm for the challenge, Carrick said he thrives when circumstances become difficult. He believes that success requires the willingness to confront adversity, remain confident and search for solutions rather than surrender to negativity. For him, the current situation represents an opportunity for Manchester United to demonstrate its character and begin moving in the right direction.