Straight talk from Carrick ahead of Manchester United's clash with West Ham as they aim for a fifth consecutive Premier League victory.
On 10 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Michael Carrick, interim manager of Manchester United, gave an interview ahead of the 26th match of the 2025-26 Premier League season, with an away game at West Ham United scheduled for tonight at 03:15 GMT+7.
Before kickoff, Manchester United sits 4th with 44 points, while West Ham United is 18th with 23 points on the Premier League table. This marks Carrick's first time managing the Red Devils against a relegation-threatened team.
So far, Michael Carrick has managed Manchester United in four matches—two against top-table teams and two against mid-table teams—and has secured victories in all, as follows:
Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City
Arsenal 2-3 Manchester United
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Manchester United 2-0 Tottenham Hotspur
However, Manchester United has lost their last three away visits to West Ham (0-1, 0-2, and 1-2). Meanwhile, West Ham's recent form has improved, winning 3 of their last 4 Premier League games, narrowing their gap to safety to just 3 points.
When asked how the upcoming game at West Ham would differ from the previous four matches, Michael Carrick replied, "I think you have to understand the situation of both teams before the match."
"We've tried to explain our game plan clearly to the players in every match so far, and it will be the same on Tuesday night. The style of play, the atmosphere, the skills required—you know each game brings different challenges."
"Of course, teams near the bottom are fighting hard for everything, just like us, and we have plenty to fight for. So, in some ways, it's balanced and it depends on who can ultimately come out on top."
"But certainly, we are well aware of what we will face on Tuesday night and how tough it will be."