Carrick Dismisses “Easy Start” Talk as United Face Hull and Ipswich

Manchester United begin the 2026-27 Premier League campaign with two matches against newly-promoted sides: an away game at Hull City on Saturday followed by a home fixture against Ipswich Town the next week. Both clubs finished the previous season in the Championship playoff positions. United’s manager Michael Carrick, who secured a permanent role after guiding the team to a third-place finish last term, has repeatedly warned that the opening fixtures should not be viewed as a soft launch.

ESPN

At a Thursday press conference Carrick called the notion of a “favourable start” “ridiculous,” emphasizing that playing a promoted team away from home is inherently difficult. He said United are aware of the challenges and will not underestimate either opponent.

ESPN

Carrick also addressed squad development. He confirmed that United are still negotiating for Brighton’s Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba, with a fee reported to be under £75 million, and that the club continues to search for a left-back to complement Luke Shaw. He highlighted recent summer signings—Youri Tielemans (arriving on 14 July for £35 million), Andrey Santos and goalkeeper Karl Darlow—and noted that several players, including Mason Mount, Benjamin Sesko and Matthijs de Ligt, are progressing through injury recoveries.

Sportskeeda

• Transfer activity: Youri Tielemans signed for £35 million on 14 July. Negotiations are ongoing for Carlos Baleba (target fee < £75 million).

Sportskeeda

• New arrivals: Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow.

ESPN

• Injury updates: Mason Mount missed the final two pre-season friendlies but is “touch and go” for the Hull game; Benjamin Sesko and Matthijs de Ligt are back in training after long-term shin and back injuries respectively.

ESPN

Sources agree United have bolstered the squad with Tielemans, Santos and Darlow, yet they differ on the status of the left-back position. The Guardian and ESPN mention a “gap” that still needs to be filled, while the BBC stresses reliance on Luke Shaw would be a “huge gamble.” No source provides a confirmed signing for that role as of the latest update.

ESPN

• “We are looking to strengthen the squad, working towards that,” — Michael Carrick, united head coach

The Guardian

• “I think, first of all, for all of us who know this league, there's no favourable start,” — Michael Carrick, united head coach

ESPN

• “I just think we're looking to strengthen the squad,” — Michael Carrick, united head coach

ESPN

• “Matta's obviously been out for a long period of time, but he's training and great to have him back," Carrick said.” — Michael Carrick, united head coach

ESPN

United’s first Premier League match is scheduled for Saturday at the MKM Stadium against Hull City, followed by a home clash with Ipswich Town the following Sunday. The summer transfer window remains open, with United expected to finalize any remaining deals before the deadline.

ESPN