Michael Carrick has affirmed his support from Manchester United’s board despite critical remarks made by former manager Erik ten Hag about the club’s culture and leadership. Carrick, currently in charge of the team, dismissed claims of a "toxic culture" at Old Trafford and emphasized a positive relationship with the club’s hierarchy as Manchester United prepare for their Champions League fixture against Como.

Ten Hag, who managed United from April 2022 until October 2024, recently described a difficult period marked by broken promises from the club’s leadership and a dressing room culture he characterized as toxic. He accused the ownership group, including INEOS co-owners and minority stakeholder Jim Ratcliffe, of fueling these issues and granting excessive power to players, which he argued undermined discipline. Ten Hag also singled out former players such as Cristiano Ronaldo for undercutting the team during his tenure.

In contrast, Carrick rejected these accusations, saying he has not encountered a toxic environment since returning to the club. Speaking ahead of the match in Italy, the 45-year-old stressed he maintains a strong working relationship with key executive figures, including director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada. He emphasized that everyone at the club is committed to pulling in the same direction and focused on achieving better results on the pitch.

“We’ve had some good performances and others we want to improve on,” Carrick said, noting the team’s efforts and determination, including recent performances from players. He described a sense of togetherness and will within the squad, dismissing suggestions that divisions or negative influences persist in the current group.

Despite his assurances, Carrick acknowledged the pressure mounting due to Manchester United's challenging start to the season, with just two wins in their first ten games and a recent 1-1 draw against Leeds leaving the club 13th in the Premier League standings. Carrick affirmed that he understands the responsibilities his role entails and has not felt the need to seek reassurance about his future from the club leadership.

“This is a results-driven business,” he said. “We’ve got to win games of football and that’s what we’re striving to do.”

The team faces further challenges ahead of the Champions League clash, including missing nine senior players and fan unrest following the poor domestic form. Carrick stressed the importance of regrouping and defending resolutely in their upcoming fixtures.

While Ten Hag’s criticisms have sparked debate about Manchester United’s internal dynamics, Carrick’s statements convey confidence in the backing from the club’s board and reflect a desire to move forward by focusing on the team’s performance and results.