Coach Thomas Tuchel is expected to announce the England squad for friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan on 20/3. This marks the final training camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Mainoo, Maguire, and Shaw had been absent from the national team for some time. However, their return to form under Carrick, contributing to Man Utd's rise to third place in the Premier League, could help them regain favor with Tuchel. "I haven't been in contact with Tuchel," Carrick stated on 18/3 during the press conference ahead of the Premier League match against Bournemouth in round 31. "But I would love to see them called up, not just this time but next summer too. I have no influence on the decision, but with their current form, they deserve an opportunity."

Coach Michael Carrick advises Kobbie Mainoo after Man Utd's 2-0 victory over Tottenham in Premier League round 25 at Old Trafford, Manchester, England on 7/2. *Photo: EPA*

Captain Bruno Fernandes has also made a strong impression under the English manager. The Portuguese midfielder added two assists in the 3-1 victory against Aston Villa, bringing his total assists this season to 16 - double that of the next player, Rayan Cherki (Man City). This high level of performance makes Fernandes a candidate for the Premier League Player of the Season award.

Regarding this, Carrick stated: "It's not really about who I would vote for, but I'm delighted that he's playing as he is and making such a big impact on the team. I want to see Fernandes win that award. His presence in such discussions speaks volumes about the club's situation, how the team is operating, and Bruno's individual form. We'll wait and see what happens, but I'm truly pleased with what he's demonstrating."

Since replacing Ruben Amorim in January, Carrick has guided Man Utd to seven wins in nine matches, solidifying their position in the Premier League's top 3. The 44-year-old coach believes the current atmosphere at the club is relatively stable, yet maintains a strong desire for improvement. "Everything depends on each stage and the team's development momentum. Sometimes tranquility and stability are needed, but at other times, a bit of tension is required to boost performance," he said. "The players consistently strive for improvement, demonstrated by how they train and play. It's crucial to maintain balance and make sensible decisions for the coaching staff and players."

Following the Bournemouth match, Man Utd will enter a break of nearly three weeks due to the international fixture schedule and their elimination from the FA Cup. The "Red Devils" will only return to action when they host Leeds in Premier League round 32 at Old Trafford on 13/4. Carrick admitted that the upcoming long break would make preparations unique and pose a challenge in managing the squad. "The next two weeks will be a rather complex period. Most players will be on international duty, so we won't have many staying behind. The coaching staff must be flexible, adapting to each individual case; some need to maintain match fitness through playing, while others require intensified training," he explained.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Manutd.com)