Michael Carrick sets bold Manchester United trophy target

Michael Carrick has set an ambitious target for his first full season as Manchester United manager, insisting the Red Devils must fight for every trophy available.

Carrick transformed United’s fortunes after taking interim charge in January, guiding the club from sixth place to third and securing a return to the Champions League.

Now installed permanently on a two-year contract, the former United midfielder believes his squad have shown they can compete with the Premier League’s strongest teams.

“We know we’ve got what it takes to beat the best teams in this league,” Carrick wrote in a message to supporters in Manchester United’s official yearbook.

“Now it’s about doing that over a full Premier League campaign, while also fighting for every trophy available to us.”

Carrick’s confidence follows an impressive end to last season. United won 12 of his 17 Premier League matches after he replaced Ruben Amorim, with no team recording more victories during that period.

That turnaround earned him the permanent job and changed the mood around Old Trafford.

Carrick believes the players have embraced the responsibility of representing United, but he also accepts further progress is required before the club can consistently challenge for the biggest honours.

“We have a huge responsibility here to win and play exciting football,” he said. “There are steps to take, but we are in a good place to take them.”

Wayne Rooney has welcomed United’s improvement but believes expectations should remain realistic.

The former captain suggested another top-four finish and a domestic trophy would represent genuine progress, warning that immediately challenging Manchester City and Arsenal for the Premier League title could prove difficult.

United will also have to manage the demands of Champions League football after returning to Europe’s top competition.

Carrick’s squad depth will therefore be crucial, particularly in midfield following Casemiro’s departure.

Atalanta midfielder Ederson has been strongly linked with a move, while Aurelien Tchouaméni, Alex Scott and Andrey Santos have also been mentioned as potential targets.

Recruitment could determine whether Carrick’s trophy ambitions become realistic over a full season.

United’s summer transfer business will be vital as Carrick prepares his squad for Premier League and Champions League challenges.

The manager wants to build on last season’s turnaround, but competing across several competitions will require greater depth and consistency. The return of European nights to Old Trafford adds to expectations as Carrick begins his first full campaign in charge.

Can Carrick turn Manchester United into genuine trophy contenders next season?