Michael Carrick expresses pride in Manchester United’s diversity.
Michael Carrick expressed his “pride” in Manchester United’s diversity following controversial remarks made by the club’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding immigrants.
Ratcliffe stated in an interview with Sky News last week that the United Kingdom had been “colonised by immigrants,” a statement that received widespread criticism.
He later released a statement apologizing if his comments had “offended some individuals.”
Carrick addressed the media on Friday for the first time since Ratcliffe’s comments, stating: “Sir Jim has made a statement, and the club has responded, so it is not my place to add to that.”
“What I can say is that, having been part of this club for many years, we consistently make a significant impact globally.”
“We take great pride in the environment and culture we foster at the club, and we strive to uphold equality, diversity, and mutual respect every day.”
Carrick continued: “Having traveled the world, I understand what this club represents to many people, and I am fully aware of the responsibility we carry, which we aim to fulfill daily.”
“I am proud of what the club stands for and has represented for such a long time.”
Ratcliffe may face disciplinary measures, as Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed last week that the organization is reviewing the comments.
Carrick asserted that the remarks had not impacted or diminished the morale at United, noting that the club has achieved four victories and one draw in the five matches since he took over as interim head coach following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January.
“We have a very strong group, including the players and staff in the dressing room. We maintain constant communication and are here to support one another in every possible way,” Carrick stated.
“The players have been in excellent spirits this week during training. We had some time away, which was important for a refresh and a moment to regroup.”
United released their own statement the day after Ratcliffe’s Sky News interview, emphasizing their pride in being an “inclusive and welcoming” club.
United will face Everton in the Premier League on Monday, marking their first match since the draw with West Ham on February 10.
The 13-day break has provided midfielder Mason Mount with a chance to recover from an unspecified injury. He has not played since the derby victory over Manchester City in Carrick’s first match, but Carrick mentioned on Friday: “We have been patient with him.”
“We do not want to rush anything. He is a vital part of the group, and we want him back and healthy, as he will have a significant impact for us. So he is getting closer.”
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Carrick noted that defender Matthijs De Ligt is “a little bit behind” Mount in his recovery from a back issue.
Danish midfielder Patrick Dorgu remains out due to a hamstring injury sustained during the win over Arsenal.
