Man Utd star claims club can win Premier League after mood change under Michael Carrick

Manchester United’s 13-year Premier League drought may finally be approaching its end. That is the bold claim from Leny Yoro, whose optimism reflects a tangible shift in atmosphere at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick. The French defender’s assessment comes as United prepare for a pivotal season, one in which Carrick’s early influence has already reshaped the club’s trajectory. Yoro’s comments were reported by Mirror Football.

From uncertainty to belief

United have not lifted the Premier League since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, navigating seven managerial changes without restoring domestic dominance. While David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, and Erik ten Hag secured cup honours, none delivered a title challenge. Yoro, however, insists the tide is turning. “We’re Man United so we have to think like that,” he said. “And I know we have the potential to do it, so we have to do it.” His conviction is rooted in a newfound clarity of purpose under Carrick, whose arrival in January has coincided with a palpable change in the squad’s mindset. Mirror Football reported Yoro’s remarks.

The club’s pre-season campaign offered early evidence of this shift. In their most recent friendly against Atletico Madrid, Carrick’s side impressed despite a 2-1 defeat, with Bryan Mbeumo scoring twice in a central role. “Obviously, I’m lucky to be able to play a different position and I try to give my best,” Mbeumo said. “We try to get ready for the first game of the season and we work really hard on the training so it’s really important to have good results as well.” Carrick’s willingness to deploy versatile forwards underscores a tactical flexibility that has been absent in recent years. Mirror Football highlighted Carrick’s tactical approach.

A transfer window of contradictions

United’s summer activity has been marked by both progress and setbacks. Carrick has moved decisively, reshaping the squad while navigating the complexities of a congested market. Yet one potential exit has hit a snag. Joshua Zirkzee, whose £36.5m move from Bologna last year has yielded just nine goals, was expected to leave Old Trafford this summer. Juventus were initially linked with the Dutch striker, but their pursuit of Randal Kolo Muani for around £42m (€50m) has complicated matters. Mirror Football detailed Juventus’ alternative targets. With the Old Lady also completing a deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Kerim Alajbegovic, a Zirkzee switch to Turin now looks unlikely. Carrick’s decision to give Zirkzee only a cameo in the pre-season win against Atletico Madrid further signals the striker’s uncertain future.

Elsewhere, United’s pursuit of talent has intensified. Arsenal’s reported blockbuster moves for Vinicius Junior and Bruno Guimaraes have intensified competition for top targets, while Liverpool’s interest in Bradley Barcola adds further pressure. Mirror Football’s transfer live blog tracks these developments. The window remains fluid, with United balancing ambition against pragmatism as Carrick seeks to build a squad capable of sustaining a title challenge.

Tactical foundations and squad depth

Carrick’s early influence extends beyond transfers. His willingness to experiment with formations and personnel has injected fresh energy into a squad that often lacked cohesion under previous regimes. The pre-season display against Atletico Madrid highlighted this adaptability, with Mbeumo’s central deployment a case in point. Carrick’s approach suggests a clear philosophy: prioritise versatility and intensity, two traits United have sorely lacked in recent campaigns. Mirror Football analysed Carrick’s tactical flexibility.

Yet challenges remain. The squad’s depth will be tested as Carrick balances domestic and European commitments, while the need to integrate new signings seamlessly could prove decisive. The club’s transfer activity, though ambitious, must align with Carrick’s vision to avoid repeating past mistakes. United’s 13-year title drought has been a defining narrative of the post-Ferguson era, but Yoro’s confidence suggests a turning point may be near. Carrick’s arrival has not only shifted the mood but also provided a tangible blueprint for success. The coming months will determine whether this optimism translates into tangible results. For now, United’s players and supporters alike are united in their belief: this could finally be the season.

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