Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has insisted he is determined to restore the club’s identity, calling on his players to demonstrate greater unity, commitment and respect for the standards expected at Old Trafford.

According to a report by GOAL on Friday, October 23, 2026, the 45-year-old delivered a strong message during his press conference at Carrington as he addressed the growing criticism surrounding the team following their disappointing 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como.

With pressure mounting ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, Carrick chose to make his position clear before taking questions from journalists. He acknowledged that United had fallen below expectations in recent performances but expressed confidence that the situation could be corrected.

The former midfielder stressed that his responsibility was to build a team capable of representing Manchester United with pride and reflecting the values supporters expect from the club.

Carrick admitted that the players had moved away from those standards in some recent matches, but insisted he was already working to address the problems.

He emphasised that wearing the Manchester United shirt comes with significant responsibility and that everyone associated with the club must understand what is required to maintain its reputation.

The manager also delivered a direct warning when asked whether people within the club shared his determination to bring about an improvement, making it clear that anyone unwilling to show the necessary commitment had no place at Old Trafford.

Beyond individual responsibility, Carrick highlighted the importance of rebuilding togetherness and maintaining a strong collective spirit. He insisted that unity remained essential to moving the team forward and promised to ensure those qualities were present within the squad.

During his address, the United boss also mentioned several legendary figures, including Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Matt Busby, Sir Bobby Charlton, Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, as examples of the history and expectations attached to the club.

His comments come at a difficult moment for United, with concerns about the atmosphere surrounding the team increasing after the Como defeat. Captain Bruno Fernandes recently questioned the side’s tactical approach, while Lisandro Martinez has also expressed frustration over issues involving the club’s leadership.

Those developments have fuelled speculation about possible divisions within the squad, although Carrick has maintained that the dressing room is not split.

United now have an opportunity to respond when they welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford on Sunday. Carrick will expect his players to demonstrate the determination and character he spoke about as he looks to turn his message into improved performances and restore confidence among supporters.