Michael Carrick: Manchester United possesses a ‘strong base’ ahead of the ‘test’ against Arsenal.
Michael Carrick is ready for a “significant challenge” against league leaders Arsenal but notes that there is a calm assurance within Manchester United following last weekend’s derby victory.
The former midfielder, captain, and coach of the Red Devils has made a strong start to his tenure as head coach by orchestrating an impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester City last weekend.
United could have won by a larger margin and will carry the confidence from that unexpected success into north London, where they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.
“It’s been a positive week,” Carrick stated. “It was a crucial result, a strong performance, and a significant boost, particularly with the atmosphere in the stadium.
“It’s about finding the right balance between drawing encouragement and confidence from the game and performance while remaining grounded and level-headed.
“We have another important match ahead, and one game does not define a great team; it provides a solid foundation to build upon.
“There is a lot of confidence and a positive atmosphere within the group, but we remain cautious, knowing what lies ahead, and we must be prepared for it.”
Arsenal comes into this round of matches with a seven-point lead at the top of the table and has a strong recent record against United.
Mikel Arteta’s team has defeated United in their last four Premier League encounters at the Emirates Stadium and secured a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford on the season’s opening weekend.
“I’m eager for the match,” Carrick remarked. “It’s a significant challenge. They are an excellent team, which is evident. They possess numerous strengths in their game and squad.
“It’s a major challenge; they are in their current position for a reason, and they are in the Champions League for a reason, so we are fully aware of that and do not take it lightly.
“We believe we are in a good position and are looking forward to the match, which is where we want to be, with genuine positive energy and enthusiasm, ready to approach it positively, but we understand it will not be easy.”
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Arsenal’s effectiveness from set pieces will be a key focus for United, who have fallen behind a team they once contended with for titles during Carrick’s playing days.
“We have our strategies and understand what needs to be accomplished and how to reach that goal,” the former midfielder continued.
“Kudos to Arsenal; they are in a very strong position right now, having developed a solid squad, and Mikel deserves a lot of credit for that. He has done an exceptional job.
“We have our own plans regarding what we need to do and what it will take to get there, and that is what we will continue to strive for.”
