Michael Carrick expressed his pride in Manchester United’s commitment to diversity following controversial remarks about immigrants made by club co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ratcliffe sparked widespread condemnation last week when he told Sky News that the UK had been “colonised by immigrants.” He later apologized, stating he was sorry if his comments had “offended some people.”
This was Carrick’s first press conference since the comments, during which he remarked, “Sir Jim has released a statement, and the club has also responded, so I don’t think it’s my place to add anything further.”
“Having been at this club for many years, I’ve seen how impactful we are globally,” Carrick continued. “We take pride in the environment and culture here; promoting equality, diversity, and mutual respect is fundamental to our ethos.”
He added, “I’ve traveled worldwide and understand what the club represents to so many people. We acknowledge our responsibilities and strive to embody that every day. I’m proud of the values this club has upheld for so long.”
There may be potential disciplinary action for Ratcliffe, as Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed last week that they are reviewing his comments.
Despite the controversy, Carrick assured that the team’s morale remains high, having won four matches and drawn one in five games since he took over as interim head coach following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January. “We have a very strong group—players and staff alike. Communication is constant, and we support one another in every possible way,” he said.
“The players have been in great spirits during training this week. Our time away was crucial for a refreshing break.”
Following Ratcliffe’s interview, Manchester United released a statement reaffirming their pride in being an “inclusive and welcoming” club.
The team is set to face Everton in the Premier League on Monday, marking their first match since drawing with West Ham on February 10.
The 13-day break has given midfielder Mason Mount a chance to recover from an unspecified injury. He has been absent since the derby win over Manchester City during Carrick’s debut game. “We’ve been patient with him,” Carrick said. “We don’t want to rush his recovery. He’s a key part of the team, and we want him back at full fitness, as he’ll make a significant impact.”
– Ange Postecoglou: Man United job ‘hardest in world football’
Man United won’t reduce fee for Barcelona to retain Marcus Rashford – sources
Wayne Rooney: Why Michael Carrick ‘makes sense’ as permanent Man United boss
Carrick mentioned that defender Matthijs De Ligt is “a little bit behind” Mount in his recovery from a back issue, while Danish midfielder Patrick Dorgu remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in the victory over Arsenal.