Michael Carrick, the interim manager of Manchester United, has disclosed that he and his squad have not received any form of apology or communication from Sir Jim Ratcliffe in the wake of the billionaire's contentious remarks about immigration. Ratcliffe, who serves as the club's largest single shareholder and oversees football policy, sparked widespread criticism after stating in a Sky News interview on February 11 that the United Kingdom has been "colonised by immigrants."
Outcry and Qualified Apology
The backlash was swift and intense, prompting Ratcliffe to issue a statement the following day expressing regret if his "choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe." However, Carrick confirmed on Friday that this public apology was not extended privately to the team or management. When questioned about whether Ratcliffe had undermined the club's longstanding ethos of unity, cultivated under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Carrick asserted the squad remains cohesive.
Team Unity and Managerial Focus
"We're definitely all pulling together," Carrick emphasized during the buildup to Monday night's Premier League match against Everton. "Being around here and in stadiums recently, it's clear we are pulling together, pretty strong as a group." He noted that his last interaction with Ratcliffe was on January 25 during United's away victory over Arsenal, stating, "I'm fine with that," and downplayed the need for constant communication from above in his role.
Carrick explained that his primary responsibility is to foster a positive environment within the first team and beyond, focusing on leadership rather than external distractions. Since taking over from Ruben Amorim on January 13, he has actively engaged with the club's academy, attending youth games such as the under-18s' 3-1 win against Manchester City on February 14.
Influence of Personal Experience
Reflecting on his own career, Carrick highlighted the importance of pathways from youth to senior levels, drawing from his time as a young player at West Ham United. He recalled winning the FA Youth Cup in the 1998-99 season and a memorable moment when assistant manager Frank Lampard Sr. traveled to watch a youth cup match against York on a Tuesday night. "That connection is something I'm passionate about," Carrick said, underscoring his commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining traditions at Manchester United.
As the team prepares for the Everton fixture, Carrick's comments underscore a focus on internal strength amid external controversies, with no indication of further engagement from Ratcliffe regarding the immigration remarks.
