Michael Carrick Says Wins Are the Only Answer as Manchester United Come Under Pressure

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick insists he does not need reassurance from the club’s hierarchy, admitting that improved results are the key to easing pressure as the struggling Red Devils prepare to face Como in the Champions League.

Michael Carrick has acknowledged the importance of winning games as speculation over his future at Manchester United intensifies following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season.

United travel to Italy to face Como on Wednesday, October 21, having won just two of their first 10 matches in all competitions, according to reports ahead of the fixture. Their difficult run has included elimination from the League Cup by Brighton and a Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid.

Carrick, who was appointed permanent manager in May after an impressive spell as interim boss, is now under pressure to turn the team’s fortunes around.

Speaking at his pre-match news conference, the Englishman made it clear that he understands the demands of managing one of the biggest clubs in world football.

“I know we’ve got to win football games for everything to flow and everything to fit into place. That’s the great thing about it; we can do something about it,” Carrick said.

“I don’t need any reassurance. It’s pretty clear. I know the role, I know the responsibilities. I don’t need anyone else to kind of tell me that or tell me when it’s going well or when it needs to be better. I know that myself.”

Carrick insists he feels backed by United

Despite mounting scrutiny over United’s performances, Carrick also indicated that he has a positive relationship with the club’s leadership.

When asked whether he felt supported by the board, he responded: “Yeah. Why wouldn’t I? I’m in this position, I have a good relationship, a really good relationship with everyone at the football club.”

His comments come amid renewed debate about the club’s internal culture and the relationship between managers and senior executives, following criticism from former United manager Erik ten Hag.

Carrick’s immediate focus, however, is on improving results on the pitch rather than becoming distracted by speculation about his position.

United have endured a difficult opening to the campaign, leaving the manager under pressure to find solutions and restore confidence among supporters.

Injury problems add to United’s challenge

Carrick’s preparations for the Como fixture have been complicated by a lengthy list of unavailable players.

Lisandro Martínez will miss the match after being substituted at half-time during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United because of a thigh problem. Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Šeško, Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven are also among the players unavailable, while Leny Yoro is suspended following his dismissal against Atlético Madrid.

The absences leave United with limited defensive options and could force Carrick to rely on players returning from injury alongside younger members of the squad.

Matthijs de Ligt’s return to availability provides some encouragement, but United must still find a way to compete with a depleted squad.

Como test could prove important

United’s meeting with Como presents Carrick with another opportunity to halt the team’s slide and build momentum in Europe.

Como, managed by former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Cesc Fàbregas, have attracted attention for their progress and playing style. The Italian side will be looking to take advantage of home conditions against a United team seeking a response after its defeat to Atlético Madrid.

For Carrick, the immediate objective is straightforward: secure results and demonstrate that his team can recover from its difficult start.

His message to the club’s hierarchy suggests that he does not expect reassurance to solve the problem. Instead, performances and victories will determine whether Manchester United can regain stability and ease the scrutiny surrounding the manager.

As the Red Devils prepare for the European encounter, the pressure remains firmly on the team to deliver a response on the pitch.

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