Man United aiming for a third consecutive win? Carrick warns that the real test lies against Fulham! A pre-match look at the youth team game

Manchester United will host Fulham on Sunday, and new manager Carrick is poised to achieve a three-win streak since taking charge. Yet, ahead of the match, supporters are set to demonstrate outside Old Trafford targeting owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family, with approximately 6,000 participants expected. Carrick hopes the squad stays focused, as Fulham represents their greatest challenge.

Carrick stated, “This won’t affect the team. I have immense respect for the fans; they have been incredible, supporting the club through many ups and downs over the years. I’m not bothered by it, and neither are the players. On the pitch, the support we feel has always been extraordinary. From all the matches I’ve seen, the fans’ backing is at the highest level, and I believe that will continue.”

The United manager credited the fans for the team’s recent success. “Over the past two weeks, the connection and understanding between us have been very special, benefiting both sides greatly. I think the fans have sensed the positive atmosphere, and the team, especially the players, have drawn motivation from it. This is something we want to keep building on in the future; it’s our hope.”

Carrick dismissed any suggestion that off-field issues impact the team’s performance as an excuse. “I believe Manchester United has enjoyed a wonderful two weeks with good momentum. We want to maintain this trajectory; that’s our goal. Never be satisfied with the status quo — always move forward. Whatever happens off the pitch, whether at the club or around it, is not something we or the players should concern ourselves with. We must not let those matters affect our performance, understand? That’s how we feel. We have the fans’ unwavering support and encouragement, and we must keep pushing forward.”

After two consecutive wins, Manchester United sits fourth in the Premier League, but Chelsea and Liverpool have temporarily overtaken them following their recent victories. Carrick and his squad must secure strong results in the remaining 15 games to guarantee a return to the Champions League. Carrick remains humble despite beating top teams and knows Marco Silva’s Fulham will pose a different challenge compared to Guardiola’s Manchester City or Arteta’s Arsenal.

To some extent, facing a team like Fulham is as tough for Manchester United as playing against strong opponents. “The match against Marco (Silva) and Fulham, I believe, will be our biggest test,” Carrick said. “Therefore, we absolutely cannot take it lightly or view this game differently. The match is imminent, and we must be fully prepared, bringing passion and determination to every game while showing the utmost respect to any opponent. We still have much to fight for and must stay focused, continuing to display the same concentration we had against Manchester City and Arsenal.”

Although Manchester United attracts more attention, Fulham is only four points behind. Carrick emphasized, “Fulham is performing exceptionally well right now, their league position close to ours. Their rise is no coincidence, so this match is a significant challenge for us. Unpredictable things may happen during the game, but from what I’ve seen — including the players’ reactions after the last match and their focus in training — their training intensity has been very high. To me, that’s the ideal state.”

On the eve of the match, Carrick and United assistant Steve Holland watched another Manchester United youth team game, where the U18s lost 1-2 in a friendly against Nottingham Forest. Carrick explained, “It’s not out of obligation that I watch these games; I enjoy observing who performs well. Paying attention to young players is important because sometimes opportunities come closer than they expect. We try to involve them in first-team training so they can adapt to the environment and learn from experienced players.”

Since taking charge, Carrick has activated 20-year-old academy star Cody Menéz, who is almost certain to start his fourth consecutive match against Fulham. “Sometimes we label players too quickly, which isn’t accurate,” Carrick said. “Cody can play different roles. When paired with Casemiro in midfield, they have combined well in the last two games, significantly helping control the match. Cody is still young; he has experienced highs and lows, which is normal. I was the same when I was younger. These experiences make him better, stronger, and more experienced. Watching his development is truly enjoyable.”

Menéz hopes to catch the attention of England coach Tuchel through his performances at Manchester United and earn a return to the national team for this summer’s World Cup. Carrick, who was overlooked as a player for the Three Lions, said, “The key to becoming a top player lies in adapting to your environment. Cody joined the United first team at a young age and has played in some important matches. He has represented both our club and England in finals, playing a vital role. So, being able to handle the challenge itself is very important, and he has proven he can do that. Cody is in good form now, and we must keep encouraging, supporting, and helping him improve.”