Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has backed his side to mount a strong Man Utd Champions League push as the club prepares for its return to Europe’s elite competition after a three-year absence.

Michael Carrick, appointed permanent manager after guiding Manchester United to a third-place Premier League finish last season, expressed measured optimism on Wednesday ahead of the club’s opening league phase fixture against Azerbaijani champions Sabah at Old Trafford.

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“It’s a magical competition. It’s where we all want to be,” Michael Carrick said. “When you’re out of it, you realise how special it is and when you’re in it, you want to make the most of it.”

Manchester United’s return to the Champions League marks a significant moment for a club that has struggled for consistency in Europe in recent years.

The three-time European champions have failed to progress beyond the last 16 since 2019 and exited at the group stage in two of their last three appearances.

Despite a modest start to the current Premier League campaign, collecting four points from matches against Hull City, Ipswich Town and Everton, Michael Carrick insisted the squad possesses the quality required to compete at the highest level.

“We’re delighted to be here, but we’re not here to just enjoy the occasion. We’re here to do business and go as far as we possibly can,” Michael Carrick added.

The campaign presents a renewed test of depth for Manchester United, particularly after a relatively quiet transfer window that saw reinforcement focused largely on midfield options.

However, the team’s performances against top opposition last season, including victories over Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea, have offered encouraging signs.

Michael Carrick acknowledged the demanding fixture schedule but described it as part of the club’s ambition. “We play Thursday, Sunday, Wednesday and it’s what we’re here for.

It’s about managing the group and having trust in everyone able to play,” Michael Carrick said.

Secondary developments within the squad could also influence the early stages of the campaign.

Forward Benjamin Šeško is pushing for his first start of the season after scoring from the bench in a 2–2 draw at Everton, while defender Matthijs de Ligt is nearing a return after almost a year sidelined with a back injury.

The broader context of Manchester United’s European journey adds balance to the optimism.

Last season’s lighter domestic schedule, with just 40 matches, contributed to improved league form, but the added demands of Champions League football will test both squad depth and tactical flexibility.

For supporters, the return to Old Trafford on a European night carries emotional weight, with expectations cautiously rising.

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Whether the Man Utd Champions League push can translate into a deep run remains uncertain, but Michael Carrick’s calm confidence suggests a team ready to embrace the challenge.