Carrick Urges Players to Step Up Amid United's Rough Start

Manchester United have struggled to find their rhythm early in the season, with two consecutive defeats leaving manager Michael Carrick under scrutiny. The former midfielder‑turned‑coach is now urging his squad to step up as the club prepares to face Fulham on Sunday.

Back‑to‑Back Losses

United’s campaign has been marred by a 2‑0 loss to Brighton in the Carabao Cup and a 1‑0 defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League, leaving the team with only four points from four matches. Despite a convincing 4‑0 win over Sabah in Europe, the Red Devils have yet to secure a league victory.

Bardsley’s Call to Action

Academy graduate Phil Bardsley dismissed rumours that Carrick’s future is in doubt, describing the chatter as “a lot of nonsense.” The Scotland international stressed that criticism is inevitable at a club of United’s stature and that the responsibility to rebound lies with the players.

Bardsley added that the club’s history of great managers—Mourinho, Van Gaal, Amorim and Carrick himself—demonstrates that success depends on collective effort. “The players must demand results from one another,” he said, urging the squad to dig themselves out of the current slump.

Squad Development

Since taking the helm, Carrick has integrated new signings Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow into the first team. The 70‑million‑pound acquisition Carlos Baleba is still awaiting his debut, but the manager believes he is close to breaking into the lineup.

“Everyone is fit and ready,” Carrick told club media. “We’re looking forward to a strong game on the weekend, and I expect Baleba to be part of that effort.”

Upcoming Match vs Fulham

United’s next challenge comes against Fulham, a side that finished in the top half of the table last season. The match offers Carrick an opportunity to showcase the progress of his squad and to reassure supporters that the club is on the path to recovery.

With the team’s morale hanging in the balance, Carrick’s message is clear: the players must step up, embrace the pressure, and deliver results if United is to regain its footing in the Premier League.