Carrick stays positive despite United’s constraints

Manchester United visited Everton with Michael Carrick insisting he is satisfied with the club’s summer business despite operating under financial restrictions. United focused their resources on rebuilding the midfield after Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s injury, investing £155 million in Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba. Their rivals spent far more, with Manchester City breaking the British transfer record for Enzo Fernández and Liverpool committing up to £123 million for Bradley Barcola.

Carrick admitted the club had limits but praised the quality of their signings, stressing that no squad is ever perfect and adaptation is essential. Defensive depth remains a concern, with Luke Shaw the only senior left‑back available.

Joshua Zirkzee, expected to leave to raise funds, ultimately stayed despite interest from Fiorentina, Juventus and Everton. United responded to an opening‑day defeat at Hull by beating Ipswich 5‑2, powered by a Bruno Fernandes hat‑trick, restoring optimism ahead of Matchday 3.