Michael Carrick Stays Hopeful After Manchester United’s Draw at Everton
Manchester United Held to 2-2 by Everton
Despite a late strike from Ainsley Maitland-Niles that rescued a point for Everton, Michael Carrick remains hopeful about Manchester United’s prospects. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving the Red Devils frustrated after dropping points once again.
Bright Spots Amid Challenges
Benjamin Sesko opened his scoring account for the season, overcoming a delayed start caused by a shin injury. Kobbie Mainoo has shown solid form throughout the campaign, appearing unfazed by a difficult World Cup experience. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens also displays notable mental resilience. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford seems reinvigorated since returning to the club.
Still, the team’s overall start is troubling. Despite a European pre-season intended to prepare them well, United have collected just four points from three Premier League games and conceded twice in each match. Their opponents included two promoted clubs plus an Everton side grappling with fan unrest after a problematic transfer deadline day.
Upcoming Challenges
Manchester United face their Champions League return against Azerbaijan’s Sabah FK, a tricky fixture, before meeting local rivals Manchester City. This week was anticipated eagerly last year, but the pressure mounts early this season.
Carrick’s Take on the Season So Far
"It’s not that bad, you know," Carrick said about their start. "We were close to getting three points today. There are small details we can improve on, but we’ll be fine."
His view found backing from former player Wayne Rooney, who praised United’s control and midfield performance despite being disappointed by the result.
"The midfield three were really good," Rooney noted. "Two excellent strikes from Everton made the difference, but United showed promise. They’ll feel frustrated not to have won given how they played."
The Cost of Conceding Twice
Carrick acknowledged the disappointment of conceding two goals. The first equalizer came from a powerful shot by Tyrique George, and the second, a stunning debut goal from substitute Maitland-Niles, marked the first time an Everton player scored from outside the box on their Premier League debut.
No single player bore full blame. Lammens might have done better on the near post for the first goal, yet George’s shot was fast and accurate.
"We need to concede fewer goals," Carrick admitted. "The mentality is there, but we must improve as a team to increase our chances of winning."
Luke Shaw’s Impact and Transfer Window Decisions
Questions linger over United’s transfer activity, especially the absence of a new striker to support Sesko. Notably, Joshua Zirkzee remained unused on the bench, while plans to sign Rayan Ait-Nouri from Manchester City were dropped to avoid pressuring left-back Luke Shaw.
Shaw stood out during the match, pushing forward frequently and setting up Sesko’s late header. Rooney highlighted his strong defensive leadership and attacking threat, especially his partnership with Rashford.
"Marcus and Luke were particularly dangerous down that side," Carrick remarked. "They’ve built a good understanding. We’re working on partnerships across the squad."
Ashley Young also praised Shaw’s dynamic playstyle, comparing it to his early days at United.
Testing Times Ahead
Carrick faces a demanding schedule: four matches in 11 days, his busiest period since taking charge. Questions about Shaw’s fitness and selection, Zirkzee’s role, and whether Sesko starts against Sabah remain open. Balancing these challenges while securing results will be key.
For now, Carrick’s "not that bad" assessment feels realistic after three league matches, but expectations at Manchester United demand more soon.
- Match: Everton 2-2 Manchester United
- Date: 6 September 2026
- Key Players Scoring: Benjamin Sesko (United), Tyrique George and Ainsley Maitland-Niles (Everton)
- Conceded Goals Per Game: 2 in each of 3 Premier League matches
- Points Dropped: 5 from first 3 games
- Upcoming Matches: Champions League vs Sabah FK, Premier League derby vs Manchester City
