Carrick Sets Manchester United Champions League Target Ahead of Sabah Clash
Manchester United return to UEFA Champions League action on Thursday when they welcome Sabah to Old Trafford, with Michael Carrick insisting the club’s objective is to compete deep into the tournament rather than merely enjoy being back in Europe’s leading competition.
United earned their place after several seasons away from the Champions League, but Carrick said participation at that level must be considered a normal requirement for the club. The former United midfielder, who won the competition as a player in 2008, wants his squad to treat the opening match against the Azerbaijani side as the beginning of a sustained European campaign.
“It is a magical competition and it is where we want to be every single year,” Carrick said. “We are here to do business and go as far as we possibly can.”
Shaw managed and De Ligt nearing return
Carrick clarified the absences of Luke Shaw and Matthijs de Ligt from open training at Carrington. Shaw was given an additional recovery day, while De Ligt remains in the closing part of his rehabilitation from a long-term injury.
“Luke was just given an extra recovery day,” Carrick said. “Matta is on a good track and it is great to have him back around us, while Ben is getting closer and closer after training fully for three-and-a-bit weeks.”
The reference to Ben concerned Benjamin Sesko, who is moving nearer to a place in the starting side. The striker made an impact as a substitute against Everton, scoring United’s equaliser, and has now completed more than three weeks of full training.
United preparing for a demanding run
Carrick said squad management will be important as United balance European football with a packed domestic programme, including an approaching Manchester derby. He stressed the need for trust across the group rather than relying on a small number of players.
There was also a lighter moment when Carrick was asked about Bryan Mbeumo’s best position in attack. The United coach joked that the forward’s preferred role is on the left wing, prompting a smile between the pair.
Behind the humour, Carrick’s message was that United will need flexibility and depth across the front line and throughout the squad during the coming fixtures.
Respect for Sabah
United will begin their Champions League return against a Sabah team Carrick believes are well organised and deserving of full respect. He warned that the home side cannot allow the occasion or their European ambitions to distract them from the demands of Thursday’s match.
Having experienced Champions League success himself, Carrick described winning the trophy as football’s highest feeling. He has challenged his players to meet the expectations that come with wearing the United shirt, remain grounded and make regular progress into the competition’s knockout rounds.
The immediate aim is to make a positive start at Old Trafford, build momentum from the first European night of the season and then carry it into United’s domestic schedule.
