Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faced the press following his side’s fortunate 0-0 stalemate against Sunderland. The Black Cats dominated proceedings, but Matheus Cunha squandered a late golden chance, denied by Robin Roefs.
Speaking after the match, Carrick emphasized the positives from a difficult afternoon: “It was a tough game, no doubt. Credit to Sunderland—we knew it would be challenging. At times we had to dig deep. It wasn’t our best performance, but taking something from the game when you’re not at your best is an important trait we’re building.” He acknowledged that the lineup changes had an effect but deemed a clean sheet and away point an “acceptable” result.
Joshua Zirkzee earned a rare start but struggled to make an impact. Carrick offered a measured assessment: “Honestly, it was a tough game for everyone. Away matches like this are always demanding. There were moments when Josh linked play well, and other times we left him isolated—that can happen in football.” He insisted Zirkzee played an “important role” and wouldn’t be judged on one match.
When asked whether the players had adopted an “on the beach” mentality after last week’s Champions League-qualifying win over Liverpool, Carrick reacted sharply: “Honestly, I almost get offended by that suggestion. Look at how the players prepared and approached the game. Sunderland made it very difficult, and if they weren’t focused or motivated, we would have lost today.” He added: “The players have huge pride in themselves, in each other, and in representing this club. Motivation and focus are definitely not issues—some performances are harder than others, but it won’t be because the players aren’t committed.”
On the injury front, Carrick provided updates on Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko, both absent from the match. “Casemiro should be fine—it’s nothing major, and he’ll be okay for next week. Ben has been managing a shin problem for a while, so we need to handle that carefully and decide what’s best for him.”
Late controversy arose when Sunderland’s Nilson Angulo appeared to extend his arm into Bruno Fernandes’ face, escaping a card despite United calls for a red. Carrick said: “I haven’t seen it back yet. Bruno said he felt contact and wasn’t happy afterward. The staff weren’t pleased either. Right now, I’m a bit confused about some of the decisions we’re seeing, so it’s probably better for me to keep quiet on that.”