Manchester United sweat on injuries before Atletico
Antonio Valencia says he had the chance to join Real Madrid but chose United instead. He also praised Jose Mourinho and said he is proud of his Manchester United career.
Steven Gerrard said £50m midfielder Andrey Santos is 'not a Manchester United player', arguing United's midfield lacks the world-class level needed to challenge for top honours.
Carrick said United rate Atletico Madrid as highly as Real Madrid or Barcelona, praising Diego Simeone's work and warning his side to be ready for the Metropolitano atmosphere.
United head to Atletico after a 4-0 win over Sabah and a four-match winless run. Sports Mole says victory in Madrid could be a statement result and a turning point for Carrick.
Jaume Camacho, 17, has signed with Roc Nation after emerging as a highly rated United academy midfielder, having debuted for the Under-18s at 15 and featured in the Youth League.
Wayne Rooney said United's low running figures reflect a tactical flaw, urging Carrick to copy Jose Mourinho's aggressive mid-block rather than a passive shape.
Leny Yoro said United have held honest 'tell it like it is' talks after their poor start. He backed the squad to improve and said pressure will not affect him at Atletico.
United are set to watch Atletico winger Giuliano Simeone closely on Tuesday, but the 23-year-old is tied to the Spanish club until 2030 with a €500m release clause.
Carrick is reportedly planning a major reshuffle at Atletico, with Bruno Fernandes moved to the right and Youri Tielemans as No 10 amid injuries and pressure on United.
United could move in January if results stay poor and the right players are available, Fabrizio Romano says. A left-back and an experienced striker are possible priorities.
United risk losing academy player JJ Gabriel in January, with Real Madrid reportedly confident. His camp reportedly demanded first-team training, minutes, a salary rise and the No 77 shirt.
Carrick cited Mikel Arteta and Diego Simeone as examples of why managers need time as pressure builds around him before the trip to Atletico Madrid.
United plan to keep Joshua Zirkzee in January, with Carrick reportedly retaining faith after an encouraging cameo against Tottenham despite the forward's limited minutes this season.
Diego Simeone defended struggling United before Tuesday's Champions League tie, calling them 'a very strong side' with pressing, movement and the ability to take time away.
Carrick said Bruno Fernandes is carrying a manageable issue but does not need time out. The United captain is in good shape and expected to face Atletico Madrid.
Michael Owen said Carrick deserves more time despite reports Antonio Conte is 'reaching an agreement' with United, ahead of trips to Atletico Madrid and Leeds.
Paul Merson said United face a 'nightmare week' at Atletico and Leeds, claiming Elland Road fans would be 'shocked' if Carrick's side won there given their poor start.
Ahead of Leeds v United, Matthew Kilgallon says Ethan Ampadu is a better captain than Bruno Fernandes, though he warns stopping Fernandes is still key to hurting United.
Paul Parker says criticism of Lisandro Martinez ignores bigger issues, branding Harry Maguire 'got no legs' and Leny Yoro 'a bag of nerves', while backing De Ligt to improve United.
PSG have emerged as surprise suitors for Leny Yoro in 2027. United still view the defender as a long-term investment, but his limited minutes under Michael Carrick are a concern.
Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo miss Tuesday's trip to Atletico after injuries at Spurs. Carrick said Benjamin Sesko needs more tests, while Matthijs de Ligt returns to the squad.
