Biggest challenges Michael Carrick faces at Manchester United this summer

Biggest challenges Michael Carrick faces at Manchester United this summer Manchester United were enduring a challenging period when Michael Carrick took over the club’s reins as interim manager in January.  Ruben Amorim was supposed to be given an extended run of three years to prove himself, but he lost his job midway through the season after hitting out at the club’s owners.  Carrick made an immediate impact at Old Trafford, as he led the team to a series of impressive results, including victories against Manchester City and Arsenal.  A home defeat against Leeds United in April after a 2-2 draw at Bournemouth sparked fears they could miss out on Champions League qualification.  But United bounced back to claim a huge victory against Chelsea and later edged Liverpool 3-2 in what was regarded as their two biggest tests of the campaign .  Carrick ultimately secured his side a place in next season’s Champions League with a third-placed league finish, earning the right to continue as the club’s head coach .  But tougher challenges await the English boss as he aims to take the club to the next level. New signings Ederson is close to joining Man Utd as Carrick’s first summer signing.  But with Casemiro leaving as a free agent and Manuel Ugarte also facing an uncertain future, more midfield reinforcements are needed.  Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is at the top of their transfer shortlist, but Manchester City are believed to be leading the race for the England international.  United is expected to sign a left-sided player to support Luke Shaw, while they may also look to bring support for centre-forward Benjamin Sesko.  Departures Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho will join Casemiro in leaving the club this summer.  United are also open to offers for Andre Onana and Marcus Rashford.  There remains uncertainty over the futures of Joshua Zirkzee and Ugarte, as the pair have failed to make an impact in Manchester.  Meanwhile, Mason Mount’s future has also been a source of speculation.  Will academy stars get a chance in pre-season? United will begin their preparations for the 2026-27 season by facing Wrexham in Helsinki before the World Cup final is over.  Academy stars Tyler Fletcher and JJ Gabriel are in line to get a chance to showcase their skills in pre-season.  Fletcher and Gabriel enjoyed impressive campaigns and won respective Under-21 and Under-18 club player of the year awards.  Shea Lacey, Jacob Devaney, Dan Armer and Jim Thwaites are also expected to be given a chance by Carrick.