Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox has challenged Michael Carrick’s squad to compete across all four competitions next season.
United finished third in the Premier League during Carrick’s interim spell, securing a return to the Champions League after one season away.
However, early exits against Grimsby Town and Brighton ended their Carabao Cup and FA Cup campaigns. Wilcox now wants United to challenge on every front as the club continues its rebuild.
Writing in an official message to Manchester United supporters, Wilcox praised Carrick’s leadership and the progress made since his return to Old Trafford.
He said the club could be proud of the “winning culture” developing at Carrington, while insisting United remain driven by the ambition to compete for the biggest honours.
Wilcox sets expectations for Carrick’s first full season
Wilcox believes Carrick earned the permanent position after recording United’s highest Premier League points total since returning to the club.
The director of football also praised the alignment between the head coach, players and United’s wider football structure.
Carrick has received significant backing during the summer window. Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Karl Darlow have arrived as United prepare for the additional demands of Champions League football.
Santos could make his debut against Wrexham after being named in the travelling party. Read Man Utd detailed the full 25-man squad selected for Saturday’s pre-season opener in Helsinki.
Wilcox also highlighted the progress of United Women and the academy. The women’s team reached the Champions League quarter-finals, while four academy players made senior debuts.
United’s objectives are now clear. Carrick must build on last season’s league progress while delivering longer runs in the domestic cups and competing on the European stage.
