Michael Carrick Warns Manchester United Not to Underestimate Fulham

JAKARTA - Manchester United will host Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday, February 1, 2026, after a sensational victory against Arsenal last weekend.

Even though he is in high motivation, Michael Carrick said that Manchester United should not underestimate Fulham. If you look down on it, it will be a big mistake.

Carrick started his tenure as interim manager with wins over the top two teams in the English League. He is looking to achieve a third consecutive victory when Fulham visits Old Trafford.

Therefore, the former Manchester United midfielder has issued a warning ahead of the meeting with Marco Silva's team.

"I think the players are in good condition ahead of the game. It's a difficult game, a tough challenge, I think Marco has brought Fulham to a very good team."

"Suddenly this is a different game, this is Fulham, just because we are playing at home, taking anything for granted is the wrong thing," Carrick told a news conference on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Carrick got a boost with the return of Joshua Zirkzee, who returned to training after missing the last two games with an injury.

Meanwhile, Matthijs de Ligt is still absent and Patrick Dorgu will also be absent after suffering a hamstring injury in the 3-2 win at the Emirates.

"Unfortunately, Pat will be out for some time. It's disappointing because he's had an incredible few weeks."

"We're not sure if it's cramp or something more serious and it seems to be something more serious at the moment. It will take a few weeks. How many weeks, we have to wait and see," said Carrick.

Dorgu's injury is a blow for Carrick, especially after the Dane scored against Manchester City and Arsenal.

There are still three days left before the transfer window closes if Manchester United chooses to jump into the market to strengthen the squad. Carrick opened the door for transactions before the deadline on Monday, February 1, 2026, local time.

"I think we're just dealing with it. Never say it's impossible because a lot of things can happen and situations can arise."

"Sometimes it's in our control, sometimes it's not. I'm pretty calm and we've shown (against Manchester City and Arsenal) what we're capable of as a team."

"We have to see what happens in the next few days," Carrick said.