Dalot predicts Manchester United are building 'something special' under Carrick

Diogo Dalot has backed Manchester United to challenge for silverware this season, declaring that manager Michael Carrick is building “something special” at Old Trafford ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener against Hull at the MKM Stadium.

Carrick was appointed on a permanent basis at the end of May after steering United back into the Champions League with three games to spare, finishing third in the 2026/27 Premier League season. The 45-year-old now sets his sights on going one better.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Dalot outlined his personal ambitions while making clear he believes the collective is ready to compete on every front. “My expectations are always the same: being able to be the best version of myself, trying to help the club as much as I can and being in the best position mentally and physically to help the team,” the Portuguese defender said.

“And then try to build around me the energy that the club needs for us to fight for every competition, for every trophy. I think that’s the minimum for this club, is for you to go to every season thinking that you can win every competition. And I think we are creating something special. Hopefully we can do it this season and arrive at the end of the season fighting for those competitions.”

Dalot returned to Carrington earlier this month after a post-World Cup break, having reached the Round of 16 with Portugal alongside teammate Bruno Fernandes. He acknowledged the disappointment of an early exit but framed it as a learning experience for the national side.

“I think the way it ended was obviously disappointing because we aimed for more,” he said. “Having a lot of talent, a lot of quality, it’s not enough to win this kind of tournament. You always need something more, and I think that’s what we need to find out. But it’s also a learning process and a learning point for us as a country, as a team.”

United’s early-season schedule is demanding. Following the trip to Hull, they host Ipswich Town at Old Trafford before facing Everton, Manchester City, and Fulham in quick succession ahead of the first international break.