Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick stated he does not feel he is on the brink of being sacked, despite mounting pressure and speculation. He expressed anticipation for the upcoming Champions League clash against Roma at Old Trafford.
United are in danger of equalling a club record of ten consecutive games without a win in a single season, a mark set by Dave Sexton's team in March 1978. Although United's leadership reportedly granted Carrick more time, there is a suspicion he could be dismissed during the international break following the matches against Roma and Aston Villa.
"No, not at all," Carrick responded when asked if he felt his job was at risk. "Listen. I can’t look into the future, and you never know what's going to happen. I don't know what's going to happen. That doesn't change the way I feel. That doesn't change how we're preparing for the game tomorrow, and I'm actually really looking forward to the game. I can't wait for the game tomorrow."
Carrick acknowledged that his optimism might seem unusual given the team's recent results but emphasized his commitment. "You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had and what's going on, but I genuinely, really can't wait for the game tomorrow, and that's all I'm focused on, really I am. Whatever happens, it is going to happen, but we want to make it a big night tomorrow night first."
He added, "It's what I am, it's what I live for, you know. A lot of people could do my job when you're winning a lot of football games. It's about finding the solutions, finding the answers, staying strong, leading right and getting the best out of the players. We've got to keep pushing for that. But it doesn't change my mindset at all. I love being here, I love working with the players, and the struggles and the challenges, that just drives you on to want it even more."
Carrick also addressed concerns about Lisandro Martinez's commitment following his red card against Chelsea. Martinez is available for the Roma match but will be suspended for the subsequent game against Aston Villa after receiving two yellow cards within 82 seconds. Carrick dismissed concerns about commitment, stating, "I've got no concerns about commitment at all. Things happen in football. Sometimes you do things, sometimes you make a decision, sometimes you make mistakes, sometimes it goes well for you. But the commitment is not an issue for sure."
He described the dressing room as "a good, good place" and stated he does not question the players' commitment to the club, each other, or him. However, he conceded that the team needs to improve its performance and decision-making.
Carrick confirmed that discussions regarding contract extensions for Martinez and Bruno Fernandes are ongoing, with both players having options in their current deals that United can extend by 12 months.
Patrick Dorgu has returned to training but will not feature against Roma. Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Sesko, and Manuel Ugarte will remain sidelined.
Manchester United, who have secured only three points from their first three Champions League group stage games, sit last in their group. Carrick stressed the importance of the upcoming matches for progression.
"Of course we're looking for the win," Carrick said. "There is the bigger picture and it’s about getting through to the later stages. One or two games you can get away with really, as long as you make amends for that. Tomorrow and the games coming up are going to dictate that for us. So we're certainly still in it with a great chance of progressing, and it's got to be the focus for now."
Roma's only defeat this season came against Real Madrid in the Champions League. They have a history of poor results at Old Trafford, including a 7-1 loss in 2007 when Carrick scored twice, and a 6-2 defeat in 2021.