Carrick insists: I will hold the umbrella while United gets wet
Carrick I have to hold the umbrella for myself to get wet and let the others stay dry, said the Manchester United manager to the fans, after the 4‑1 defeat to Como in the Champions and a run of seven games without a win, as he prepares for the clash against Bournemouth this Sunday.
Michael Carrick defended his management vehemently this Friday, taking responsibility for the poor performance and stating he is convinced he can pull United out of the results crisis it is going through. According to Marco Luzzani and Jordi Archs of International Football, the English coach spoke for more than five minutes, acknowledging the supporters' frustration.
Position under pressure
Carrick's position is under pressure after United endured seven games without a win in all competitions. The slide down the table, with United in 13th place with seven points, has intensified external and internal criticism.
Defeat in the Champions
The humiliating 4‑1 defeat suffered on Wednesday in the Champions League against Como has worsened the situation. Carrick described that night as one of the most painful since he took charge last January, calling it “totally unacceptable.”
Captain Bruno Fernandes questioned United's tactical approach after the match, but Carrick ruled out any rift in the dressing room and avoided commenting on the captain's future.
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Identity and supporters
The coach emphasized that his priority is to regain an identity that, in recent weeks, has completely vanished. He made a special mention of the supporters, many of whom traveled to Como to witness the defeat, and stated that they are a fundamental part of the club.
Achievements since January
Carrick took over the team in January 2026, after the dismissal of Rúben Amorim, and achieved a notable turnaround, leading United to finish among the top three in the Premier League and qualify for the Champions. He assured that he will make fans feel like they did in the first five months of the year again.
Currently, United sits in 13th place with seven points, while Bournemouth is one point behind, in 15th place. Next Sunday United will host Bournemouth at home, a match Carrick considers key to reverse the trend.
Carrick warns Man United they have lost their way before Bournemouth
With the umbrella metaphor, Carrick reiterated that his duty is to “hold the umbrella for me to get wet and let the others stay dry,” showing a defiant attitude and confidence that United will regain the energy and connection that characterized its performance last season.