Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has declared his squad can compete with Premier League rivals despite the club being outspent in the summer transfer market. Carrick made the comments in a news conference ahead of United's trip to face Everton on Sunday.
Carrick stated he is largely happy with his squad after the transfer deadline passed on Tuesday. The club brought in three midfielders over the summer at a cost of around £150 million, adding Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba to revamp the center of the park. However, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham all invested more in transfer fees than Manchester United during the window.
How does United's spending compare?
Manchester United's summer business focused heavily on midfield reinforcement after spending most of their transfer budget in 2025 bringing in three forwards. The £150 million outlay for Santos, Tielemans and Baleba represents significant investment, but it still placed United behind several direct competitors in total expenditure. Carrick addressed this disparity directly, saying "Money is one thing, what you do with it is another thing, how you make the most of it is another thing."
The manager emphasized that financial investment alone doesn't guarantee success. "I certainly feel we can compete," Carrick told reporters, expressing confidence in his current group of players. This comes as United prepare for their next Premier League fixture against league leaders Manchester City on September 13th at Old Trafford.
What is United's current league position?
Manchester United currently sit 11th in the Premier League table with 3 points from their opening two matches. Their record shows one win and one loss, with recent form reading WL. The team has scored 5 goals while conceding 4, giving them a +1 goal difference early in the campaign.
United find themselves 3 points behind leaders Manchester City after just two games. The immediate challenge is significant, with the Manchester derby against City looming as their next Premier League fixture.
What are United's future transfer plans?
Carrick revealed there is a clear idea of what the squad will look like in the future, with speculation suggesting the focus in 2027 will be strengthening the defence. The manager said the club will see how the season goes and what needs to be developed before making further moves in the transfer market.
This strategic approach suggests United's recruitment team has identified defensive areas as priorities for future windows. The current squad composition reflects this phased building process, with midfield addressed this summer following last year's forward additions.
How does the midfield revamp affect tactics?
The addition of three new midfielders gives Carrick more options in the center of the park. Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba each bring different qualities that should provide greater tactical flexibility throughout the season. This depth will be tested immediately as United face the league's top teams.
Carrick's confidence stems from believing he has the personnel to implement his preferred style of play. The manager now has multiple combinations available in midfield, allowing for adjustments based on opponents and match situations. United's next test comes against Manchester City on September 13th at Old Trafford.
