Carrick Revamps Training Routine at Manchester United

Michael Carrick has implemented a notable change to Manchester United’s post-match training routine, having achieved three consecutive wins since taking charge at Old Trafford. Under his leadership, players are now granted a day off immediately following a match, contrasting with the approaches of his predecessors, Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, who mandated recovery sessions the day after games. Previously, players who participated for less than 45 minutes were required to complete a full training session the following day.

This new approach by Carrick not only includes a day off after games but also permits players to arrive later to the stadium on matchdays, departing from Ten Hag’s requirement for players to report at least four hours before kick-off.

Since taking over from Amorim, Carrick has celebrated impressive victories against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham, although he is currently confronting several injury concerns. Mason Mount is managing a minor fitness issue, while Patrick Dorgu’s situation appears more serious. Regarding Mount, Carrick commented: “He just took a bit of a knock in training; it is nothing serious, and he will be back very very soon.”

Conversely, Carrick expressed concern over Dorgu’s injury, stating: “Pat, unfortunately, is going to be out for a period of time. We’re still assessing the duration of his absence. Initially, we weren’t sure if it was cramp or something more serious, and it seems to be leaning towards the latter.”

Carrick acknowledged the unfortunate timing of Dorgu’s injury: “It will be a few weeks for that. How many weeks? We will have to wait and see. This is disappointing for all of us, especially for Pat, who was in such a good place. However, injuries are part of football.”

The players appear to be embracing Carrick’s methods, as the team currently ranks fourth in the Premier League, albeit 12 points behind leaders Arsenal. Defender Harry Maguire, who has thrived under Carrick’s management, praised the former Middlesbrough boss, stating: “It was absolutely massive. The first game, the derby at Old Trafford, always energizes you. We knew we had to back it up today against the league leaders. Michael has come in, been brilliant with us, and brought in a fresh energy; the team is really galvanizing. Winning both tough matches is magnificent.”

Looking ahead, United will face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, aiming to solidify their position in the top four. A victory could bring them within two points of third-placed Aston Villa, depending on other results. Carrick will seek to secure a fourth consecutive win against a club where he once played.