In a mailbag column, football writer Jonathan Wilson assesses whether Manchester United can build on Michael Carrick's promising start as manager, arguing that last season's strong late run came under lower pressure than a full campaign will bring. Carrick's future success matters because United have struggled for years to escape a cycle of underachievement, and this season will be the first real test of whether his methods hold up over a longer, more demanding schedule with European football added back in.

Carrick led United to 12 wins and three draws from 17 games last season, results strong enough to earn him the job, but he now faces roughly 15 additional fixtures compared with 2025-26. New signings Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans strengthen midfield, a left-back is expected to arrive before the end of the month, and Marcus Rashford, back from his Barcelona loan with two years left on his contract, could add further attacking options. Wilson concludes the squad is unlikely to challenge for the title but should be capable of a top-four finish, with Carrick's ability to manage fatigue and the club's psychological recovery from years of decline the key uncertainties ahead.