Straight talk from "Carrick" after previously managing Man United to a win over Arsenal ahead of the fiery Premier League showdown.
On 25 January 2026, Michael Carrick, interim manager of Manchester United, gave his latest interview ahead of the English Premier League's 23rd round marquee match, visiting league leaders Arsenal, taking place tonight at 23:30.
The current Premier League table shows Man United in 5th place with 35 points, while Arsenal lead by 15 points and remain unbeaten at home this season (11 matches: 9 wins, 2 draws), making it certain that the "Red Devils" will face a tough challenge.
However, Michael Carrick previously managed Man United to a Premier League victory over Arsenal, then coached by Mikel Arteta, during the 2021-22 season, when he was caretaker manager after Ole Gunnar Solskjær's dismissal and before Ralph Rangnick's appointment. The "Red Devils" won 3-2 at home against the "Gunners."
Carrick was asked if he could lead Man United to another win over Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, after an excellent debut match with a 2-0 victory over Manchester City. He replied, "The game from 3 or 4 years ago is over. It's a matter of the past."
"So, while experience can help you at times, I think this is a completely different game. The confidence I have for this match comes from what we have seen since I arrived here — between me and the staff, in terms of the gameplay, training, and the determination shown by every player."