Michael Carrick praises Atlético ahead of United-Atlético in the Champions

Michael Carrick, the Manchester United head coach, took questions at the Metropolitano this Monday—24 hours before facing Atlético de Madrid in the Champions League league-phase matchday two. The Englishman called what Atlético have achieved “extraordinary” and said they don’t approach the fixture differently, viewing the side as “as dangerous as any team in Europe.”

He pointed to Atlético’s Champions history and the challenge of opening the tournament away from home at this venue: it is “a big test” for United. Carrick also underlined that they know what’s coming and drew confidence from their second-half response versus Tottenham.

On team news, he confirmed two more absences for the trip. He also commented on the stadium’s atmosphere, saying he knows how it can affect a game from previous Champions nights watching from outside.

A confidence boost

Carrick stressed that they must start strongly and that his motivation is driven by what the group can do, not by external pressure. He also referenced the idea of players playing through minor issues, noting that one player is “practically recovered” with only a slight problem remaining and is eager to play.