Carrick eyes “big opportunity” against Arsenal as key player hits top form | OneFootball

Michael Carrick faces a stern challenge as Manchester United prepare to take on Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates.

Carrick is relishing the opportunity to measure his team against the division’s pace-setters but remains keen to keep expectations in check.

Following last Saturday’s impressive 2–0 derby victory over Manchester City, the United boss has urged caution, insisting focus must quickly shift to the next challenge.

“I’m looking forward to the game,” said Carrick. “It’s a big challenge, you know; they’re a very good team. They have so many strong points in their game and squad.

“They are where they are for a reason, and we are fully aware of that and not taking it lightly at all.

“We feel we are in a good place, and we are looking forward to the game. It’s where we want to be, with that real positive energy and enthusiasm, to go there and be positive, but for sure we know it’s not going to come easy.”

Carrick also highlighted the progress of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has regained his place in the side under the current management.

“I’ve enjoyed working with him. This club needs young players coming through; it is the foundation of the club, and it matters to the supporters as well.

“You saw last week what Kobbie can bring. He’s quite straight-faced, but he was enjoying himself! Kobbie is a prime example, coming through so quickly and having a rapid rise.

“To play in some unbelievably big games and impact those games at such a young age shows an awful lot of quality.”

Casemiro has announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, and Carrick says he hopes the midfielder can finish the campaign strongly.

“The announcement was for clarity as much as anything. It was decided before I arrived, and it wasn’t a knee-jerk decision.

“The character that he is shows you, from the performance last week, where he is mentally and how much it means for him to be here and finish the season strong.”

United will be without defender Mathias De Ligt, sidelined for two months with a back injury.

“The Dutch centre-back has not featured since the end of November, with his return delayed in recent weeks.

“He had a bit of a setback initially before I arrived, only a small one. I think it was a bit slower than he hoped, but he is getting closer.

“Hopefully he will return – without putting an exact timeline on it – and it will be great to have him back.”