Carrick's Assessment: "We Can Be Truly Proud of Our Progress in Recent Months"

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick reflected on the Red Devils' past campaign in his special column for the club's 2025/26 annual yearbook.

"I'd like to start by extending my heartfelt thanks for your incredible support throughout the past season. As a club, we progressed together, and you played a huge role in pushing the team to a third-place finish in the Premier League and qualification for the Champions League. As a former player, coach, supporter, season ticket holder, and now Manchester United's head coach, I am fully aware of how vital you are to our club. It's a true privilege to have been supported by you since the moment I first walked through these doors 20 years ago."

In the first few days after my return to the club, the coaching staff and I spoke with the players about the immense opportunity we all have to represent Manchester United – something that means so much to so many people – and the importance of embracing the challenge of playing for our club. The players certainly did that and more, and we can be truly proud of the progress the group has made over the past few months.

"Whether you're a player, staff member, or fan, we saw during the first two matches after my return, against Manchester City and Arsenal, that unique spark you always chase here. But I think what pleased me most was the way we built upon and continued to progress after those early successes. We showed quality, consistency, and that we can win in different ways. There were great attacking performances against Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa, but also victories won with great spirit and fight, like those away at Everton and Chelsea."

Even after securing our Champions League spot, we didn't lose momentum or focus. In our last two matches, it was clear that the determination was still there in everyone. This is exactly what we need to propel us forward into next season. Of course, I know it can't always be easy because the standards are so high. These standards are necessary for a club of this magnitude. That's why achieving something here is so satisfying. And if we show unity, along with the values we want to see in our performances, then we will always have a fantastic chance to be successful.

We understand the need for continuous improvement. Here, we bear a tremendous responsibility to win and play exciting football. This never changes, and we must always strive to compete for the biggest trophies. While there are steps we need to take, we are in a strong position to do so. We have a fantastic group of players, and we believe they possess the necessary talent, dedication, and determination to succeed here. They love being at the club, and we see how much they want it; this gives us the confidence to know that we are truly building something and moving in the right direction.

We know we have everything it takes to beat the best teams in this league. Now, it's about doing it consistently throughout an entire Premier League campaign, while simultaneously competing for every trophy available. I can't wait to lead the group forward next season and for those special European nights to return to Old Trafford. We are ready to push on and give you more of the great moments that are the essence of United."