- Michael Carrick has insisted Manchester United are capable of achieving great things on their return to the Champions League, refusing to write off their chances as they compete in Europe's elite tournament for the first time since 2023.
- Manchester United begin their European campaign at Old Trafford against Azerbaijani champions Sabah on Thursday, with Carrick urging his players to ensure the club becomes a regular fixture in the competition every year.
- Left-back Luke Shaw sat out training on Wednesday to take an extra recovery day following the fixture against Everton when he went off late on, though Carrick clarified this was routine individual workload management rather than a long-term issue.
- Despite a sluggish start to their domestic season with just four points from three Premier League matches, Carrick remains confident in his team's ability to perform and progress far in Europe.
- Carrick acknowledged that having two fewer recovery days than Manchester City ahead of Sunday's derby is not ideal, after City defeated Porto on Tuesday, but affirmed United must deal with the schedule.
IN FULL
Michael Carrick offers honest view on Manchester United’s Champions League chances ahead of opener
