Manchester United’s return to the Champions League is just around the corner, but there is plenty happening around Michael Carrick’s squad before the European campaign gets underway. Luke Shaw has received backing despite his difficult start, Carrick has outlined his ambitions for United in Europe, and a former City manager’s views on Marcus Rashford have resurfaced.
Here are the main Manchester United news and talking points from today.
Gary Pallister urges patience with Luke Shaw
Gary Pallister believes Manchester United supporters should be patient with Luke Shaw despite criticism of the defender’s performances at the start of the season.
As covered in our full Luke Shaw story, Pallister acknowledged that Shaw has not enjoyed a great pre-season or start to the campaign but pointed to his performances last season and his long record of more than 300 appearances for the club.
Pallister also questioned United’s overall defensive balance, saying the problem cannot simply be placed on the defenders and that the midfield must provide better protection. He suggested Carrick could consider bringing Ayden Heaven or Leny Yoro back into the side.
Carrick wants United to make an impact in the Champions League
Michael Carrick has challenged Manchester United to take their Champions League return seriously rather than simply being satisfied with qualifying.
In our full Champions League story, Carrick said United are capable of going further in the competition but must prove it through consistency. He accepts the club’s recent European record cannot simply be ignored, but believes United can compete with anyone when they perform at their best.
Carrick also stressed the importance of balancing Champions League football with domestic fixtures and said the squad’s size and versatility will help with selection.
Pep Guardiola once wanted Marcus Rashford
A surprising revelation involving Marcus Rashford has emerged through Ryan Giggs.
According to our full Marcus Rashford story, Giggs recalled asking Pep Guardiola which Manchester United player he liked during a dinner. Giggs suggested David de Gea and Luke Shaw, but Guardiola rejected both before naming Rashford.
Guardiola reportedly told Giggs that he would take Rashford immediately. The conversation was centred around Rashford playing as a centre-forward at the time.
Ryan Giggs makes huge claim about JJ Gabriel
Giggs has also offered major praise for another Manchester United player, with JJ Gabriel described as a potential “generational talent.”
In our full JJ Gabriel story, Giggs said he does not believe the teenager should be sent out on loan at this stage. Instead, he feels Gabriel would benefit from remaining around the first team, training with senior players, travelling with the squad and getting used to the attention that comes with playing for United.
Carrick sets his Champions League challenge
Carrick has also spoken about what Manchester United’s Champions League return means to the club.
In our full Champions League comeback story, Carrick described competing against Europe’s best as where United should expect to be every season. He also warned that Sabah deserve respect ahead of Thursday’s game, praising their coaching, organisation, movement, possession and pressing.
Manchester United change academy system
United have made a significant change to their academy setup under Carrick.
As explained in our full academy story, the Under-21s are now operating with a system much closer to the senior team. They have moved from a 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1, with a false nine also being used.
JJ Gabriel has been operating as the No.10, while Amir Ibragimov has taken the false-nine role. The change is designed to give young players a clearer understanding of what will be expected of them when they move towards first-team football.
For more Manchester United news throughout the season, take a look at our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.
Gary Pallister wants Man Utd to be patient with 300-appearance star
Gary Pallister wants Man Utd to be patient with 300-appearance star
Michael Carrick cautious after no recent impact in Champions League
Michael Carrick cautious after no recent impact in Champions League