Carrick faces media as United prepare for Ipswich with Baleba signed and Champions League draw made

Michael Carrick addressed the media on Friday ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town at Old Trafford on Sunday, with the United head coach fielding questions on a week that brought a new signing, a major European draw, and lingering injury concerns.

The press conference came after a turbulent opening to the season. United suffered a defeat to Hull City on the opening day, a result that has already raised the stakes for Sunday’s home match against a newly promoted Ipswich side. A second consecutive loss would intensify pressure on Carrick early in the campaign.

On the positive side, Bruno Fernandes was named PFA Player of the Year earlier in the week — an individual honour Carrick acknowledged with pride. The club also completed the signing of Carlos Baleba from Brighton, adding midfield depth ahead of a congested schedule.

United’s Champions League group-stage draw was confirmed on Thursday, handing Carrick’s side a demanding set of fixtures. Bayern Munich, who sealed United’s exit from European competition last season with a 1-0 win at Old Trafford, return to Manchester as opponents. Roma, RB Leipzig, and debutants Sabah complete the home programme, while away trips to Atletico Madrid, Sporting Lisbon, Villarreal, and Como await. United’s stated objective is to finish in the top 24 and advance to at least the play-off round — a significant step up from their 2023-24 campaign, in which they won just one match and finished bottom of a group containing FC Copenhagen, Galatasaray, and Bayern Munich.

On the team news front, Mason Mount is reported to be in contention to return for the Ipswich fixture, though uncertainty remains over the fitness of Amad ahead of the Old Trafford clash.