Manchester United manager Michael Carrick says his side are “massively looking forward” to their return to the UEFA Champions League as they prepare to begin their campaign against Sabah FK at Old Trafford.
United welcome the Azerbaijani champions on Thursday, September 10, in their first Champions League appearance since their group-stage exit in December 2023.
Carrick says the team have worked hard to earn their place in Europe’s premier club competition and are determined to make their return a memorable one.
“We worked hard to be here. It’s great to be here, massively looking forward to the game and the campaign and try to make it as long as we possibly can,” Carrick said.
“Big challenges ahead and real…”
The fixture will also be a historic occasion for Sabah, who are making their competitive debut at this level of European football.
The Azerbaijani side arrive in Manchester in impressive form, having overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Hapoel Be’er Sheva 5-2 after extra time before following that result with a 5-0 domestic victory over Zira FK.
United, meanwhile, enter the game looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-2 draw against Everton in the Premier League, where they conceded a stoppage-time equaliser.
With the Manchester derby against Manchester City coming just three days after the Champions League opener, Carrick is expected to rotate his squad and make use of United’s depth.
Benjamin Sesko is among those tipped to start, while academy players Shea Lacey and Ayden Heaven could also feature.
Luke Shaw missed the final open training session at Carrington as part of a planned medical rest, while Marcus Rashford has returned to full training and is available.
Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a long-term back problem.
For Carrick, however, the immediate focus is on making the most of United’s long-awaited return to the Champions League and beginning what he hopes will be a lengthy European campaign.
