Michael Carrick preparing for the upcoming season amid uncertainty at Manchester United
Michael Carrick has stated that he is actively involved in Manchester United’s preparations for the upcoming season, even as he awaits clarity regarding his own future.
Since taking over as head coach from Ruben Amorim in January, Carrick has made a notable impact, yet he remains uncertain about his position beyond the current season.
He has garnered considerable support from the squad after successfully guiding the team back into contention for the Champions League and is already contributing to discussions regarding the future of the playing roster while he continues to wait.
Defender Harry Maguire signed a new one-year deal this week, a decision in which Carrick participated alongside chief executive Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox.
“Certainly, in the role I’m in, there are decisions that need to be addressed,” he remarked.
“I mentioned it as soon as I arrived here — I’m part of that, and whatever that entails moving forward, I’m involved in it.
“I’m striving to enhance things and improve continuously. There are certainly discussions in various directions and aspects that I am definitely part of.
“And I believe it should be that way, as tasks need to be completed. So I’m here to manage that.”
The United head coach emphasized caution regarding the return of defender Lisandro MartΓnez and stated he will only reintegrate the Argentinian into the lineup if he is fully prepared.
Martinez has been sidelined for the last five matches due to a calf issue but has resumed team training and participated in the camp in Ireland this week.
There may be a temptation for Carrick to include Martinez against Leeds at Old Trafford on Monday, given that Harry Maguire is suspended.
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Nevertheless, the United head coach insists he will only select the 28-year-old if he is confident there is no further risk of injury. If Martinez is unavailable, Carrick will likely need to choose two young centre-backs, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, for the match against Leeds.
“It’s just that decision we have to make,” Carrick stated when asked on Saturday about Martinez’s fitness.
“We won’t be rushed into anything. It’s crucial that the players are prepared; as significant as the next match is, the overarching picture is always the most important.
“So, that’s a choice we will make. He’s back in training, which is positive, and back on the field, but we must ensure we make the right decision and confirm he is ready.”
Patrick Dorgu has not fully recovered from a hamstring injury, and despite traveling to Ireland with the squad this week, the Denmark international will not participate against Leeds.
Diogo Dalot is expected to be available after missing the trip due to illness, while Matthijs de Ligt remained in Manchester as he continues his recovery from a back issue.
“The reason [De Ligt] didn’t travel is that he’s not quite back on the field,” Carrick explained. “Patrick returned because he’s further along, but Matta isn’t at that stage yet. “So it was essential for him to continue his rehabilitation and work towards getting him back. There’s nothing else to it.”
