Interim manager Michael Carrick has expressed confidence in Manchester United's ability to compete for the Premier League title within the next two years, aligning with the club's "Mission 21" plan. This initiative aims for the club's 21st national championship by 2028, marking its 150th anniversary. The ambition follows a challenging 2024-2025 Premier League season, which saw the team finish 15th, their lowest standing since relegation in 1974. Despite this, sports advisor Dave Brailsford remains steadfast in the long-term strategy.

Coach Michael Carrick speaks with Benjamin Sesko after Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace in a Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester, England on 1/3. *Photo: Reuters*

Speaking at a press conference, Carrick acknowledged that while a title challenge won't materialize instantly, he trusts Manchester United can fulfill the "Mission 21" plan. "You can't just say it will happen and assume it will materialize", he stated. "It requires a lot of effort and preparation from the players to achieve that. The title race is very difficult, but the entire team is definitely working towards this goal. Manchester United has been in that position in the past and wants to return, even if the path ahead is not simple."

Since Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim, Manchester United has shown significant improvement. The team has won 6 of 8 matches, propelling them to third place in the Premier League with 51 points. This tally represents nine points more than they accumulated throughout the entire previous season.

Ahead of their upcoming clash with Aston Villa, a team also on 51 points, Carrick affirmed Manchester United's readiness to confront the pressure of the Champions League qualification race. The English manager cited the 1-2 defeat to Newcastle as a valuable lesson, considering such setbacks an unavoidable part of a demanding competition like the Premier League.

Emphasizing the need for resilience, Carrick remarked, "We always have to go through tests. What's important is the reaction after each game, whether we win or lose. The whole team must stay motivated and keep moving forward. Most teams experience that. It's crucial to assess the situation correctly to improve. Recent matches have given us more confidence in our capabilities and how we play".

On the squad front, midfielder Mason Mount is expected to return after two months on the sidelines. However, Patrick Dorgu, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt remain unavailable due to injuries. The absence of two key center-backs is somewhat offset by the consistent performance of Harry Maguire, the 33-year-old defender who has started every match since Carrick assumed his role.

Praising Maguire, Carrick commented, "Harry is playing very well. Not long ago, he was out long-term due to injury, but when we arrived, he immediately returned to the squad". Carrick highlighted Maguire's experience and composure as crucial defensive attributes, adding his hope that the English defender would be called up by coach Thomas Tuchel for the 2026 World Cup.

Hong Duy (via Daily Mail)