Carrick praises United’s character after 3–2 win over Roma, but calls it “just one game”
Carrick hailed his side's character after the 3–2 comeback win but warned the real significance depends on what comes next.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick applauded his players after a dramatic Champions League comeback, as United beat Roma 3-2 at Old Trafford on 4 November 2026. Carrick singled out the squad's character and warned that the real value of the result will be judged by what follows in the coming matches.
"One moment can change everything"
Speaking after the game, Carrick said he reminded the players at half‑time how quickly the atmosphere at Old Trafford can shift. "It was a lovely evening. First of all, I have to give credit to the players who showed character and quality when we needed it most. Magical things happen at this stadium and we talked about it at half‑time," he said.
The manager described his role in the dressing room as calming disappointment and refocusing the team. "I told them not to be too disheartened. I felt we were getting into the game and reaching their box," Carrick added, noting the players had been nervous despite doing useful things against a strong opponent.
Carrick declined to call the victory a turning point, stressing that its importance depends on results ahead. He also confirmed Carlos Baleba had to leave the pitch, and praised substitute Youri Tielemans for his impact: "Unfortunately Carlos Baleba had to come off, but Youri Tielemans came on and was fantastic. He showed what kind of man he is, what character he has and how important his experience is in a game like that."
He underlined the win’s value for the supporters after a difficult spell. "This is a win for us as a football club. We live for the moments when our fans leave happy — we want to give them nights like this so they come away feeling positive again," Carrick said, adding that the team must build on the performance.
Carrick finished by saying the players taught him and each other much about their character and readiness to give everything, and that while he felt much better after the match, the group must now make the most of the evening and press on.
Photo: press material from the event
