Ahead of the marquee clash in Matchweek 9 of the 2026/27 Premier League season, Manchester United will travel to face Chelsea away from home. Ahead of the fixture, Red Devils manager Michael Carrick attended the pre-match press conference, where he discussed aspects of the team's current situation.
How has this week been?
— To be honest, I was disappointed with the result; initially, I was indeed very disappointed. The flow of the game and the outcome both left me deeply disappointed, which was quite obvious. The most crucial aspect is to handle these matters effectively: what areas we can handle better, what areas we can improve, and what we can do to alter the situation? Then shift the focus toward returning to training alongside the players, preparing for the upcoming match—the fixture against Chelsea—as well as an important week ahead. That stands as my primary objective: how can we turn the situation around?
Did you seek assurances from INEOS?
— I don't need assurances from anyone. I fully understand this position, I understand this job, I understand the responsibilities within it, and I understand everything that comes along with it. Therefore, regarding this aspect, I really do not require assurances from anyone.
Regarding the decision concerning Bruno Fernandes
— As I said, this was a decision we made based on our assessment of the match. That is all it was. Bruno Fernandes possesses absolute commitment toward this club, and there is absolutely no issue regarding that point. We move forward, making decisions as we proceed, and now we look forward to Saturday's match.
He is completely committed to this club and fully dedicated toward making the team better. In my eyes, that will not change. Over many years, he has served as an exceptional leader for this team, and he will continue to maintain that role.
Following Harry Maguire replacing Bruno Fernandes as captain, does Bruno Fernandes remain captain?
— Carrick (nodding): We have not made any decision regarding that matter. Bruno Fernandes is entirely committed to the club, and there is no issue whatsoever on that point. We look forward to Saturday's fixture against Chelsea.
Have you spoken with the players?
— Naturally, that is my responsibility; matters outside my purview do not occupy my focus. I know what we can do, and I know what areas we need to improve upon. Serving as the leader of a squad, I know what assistance they require, when they require guidance, and what matters must be addressed. This constitutes my direct responsibility; I care about them, and I can influence them most directly.
Naturally, we have spoken. We conduct meetings every week, though the content of certain meetings varies based on match results, the overall context, and the feelings among the players. I must state that the lads possess a hunger to win. We feel frustrated because we haven't won enough matches, but that hunger exists, that hunger is positive, that disappointment exists, and that drive to perform better exists without question.
Are you surprised that you are still here?
— No. You know, I am here to perform my duties. I am here to contribute to the team to the absolute best of my ability, and I possess the hunger to make us better and achieve improvement. Therefore, I am not surprised.
Does Bruno Fernandes remain captain?
— We haven't made any decision regarding that matter.
