Paul Scholes explains how Carrick can lead United to Premier League glory

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Manchester United ended the season on a high, exceeding expectations following Michael Carrick’s arrival after initially struggling under Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese head coach failed to live up to the billing in his controversial 14-month reign despite investing over £200 million last summer.

Amorim lost his job in January with the Red Devils in danger of missing out on a top-four finish once again. INEOS opted to turn to club legend Carrick, initially in a temporary role, to steer the club out of troubled waters.

The Englishman, however, turned out to be a revelation, instantly transforming the team into a well-drilled machine. Carrick ditched Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, and embarked on a run of 12 wins and three draws in his 17 games in charge.

United finished third in the Premier League and the Englishman subsequently secured the full-time job. The team’s form added to optimism among fans ahead of the new season, with a belief that another fruitful transfer window could help the Red Devils fight for silverware next season. Unfortunately, it has been a mixed summer so far.

United’s mixed transfer window

United entered the summer expected to prioritise the midfield following Casemiro’s departure. Despite missing out on top targets like Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, INEOS managed to sign Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans for the position.

They also reinforced the goalkeeping department by signing Karl Darlow for free. However, things have been quiet for the past month, even though the Red Devils remain linked with several players.

A third midfielder is a necessity following Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury, while United could also do with a new left-back to cover for Luke Shaw. A new left-forward is also on the agenda amid Marcus Rashford’s uncertain future, while Benjamin Sesko’s injury woes have also sparked talk of a striker addition.

Nevertheless, the mood remains upbeat, especially following some impressive displays in pre-season. Club legend Paul Scholes has now explained whether the Red Devils can win the league next season.

United backed to win the league under Carrick

Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes pointed out that Carrick will have to deal with a congested fixture list this season, especially mentioning the midweek Champions League games. He said: “The thing Michael Carrick is going to have to deal with now as well is midweek football.”

“He had an unbelievable run last year, but everything was in his favour, if you know what I mean. Now all of a sudden he’s got these extra games which will have an impact on the squad.”

The Ginger Prince, however, tipped his former club to eventually win the Premier League under Carrick, adding: “I think Michael Carrick can win the Premier League with Manchester United, but it won’t be this season. But if he can build the right team, he can do that.”

Final Thoughts

United fans would love to see INEOS add more depth to the squad before the end of the summer, especially in midfield and attack. The Red Devils, though, are running out of time to reinforce the squad, with the transfer window set to close in just over two weeks.