"First and foremost, we want to win," said Michael Carrick when asked what style of football he wanted his Manchester United team to play this season.
But he quickly clarified: "We want to be excited - that's why we love this club. I'm fully aware that we need to do it in a certain way."
Out of possession, United have looked to press high. Starting in a 4-2-4 formation again, players hold their positions before springing to press certain opponents when the moment is right.
We have established that Carrick is keen to embrace United's front-footed DNA, looking to be proactive in their set-up this season rather than giving the opponent too much respect by sitting deep. Their defensive tactics feed into this.
The 4-2-4 leaves four attackers high and narrow. This is for a number of reasons. First, defending in this way blocks the centre of the pitch making it difficult for opponents to find players through the middle. Generally coaches, including Carrick, are more willing to concede possession in wide areas, considering the middle of the pitch more dangerous.
Secondly, the front four are positioned with United's counter-attack in mind. If United are able to win the ball back, they can quickly find four attackers closer to goal against fewer defenders. Their press becomes a method of chance creation.
This paid dividends in the 1-1 draw against Paris St-Germain, resulting in their equaliser. After winning the ball, United found themselves four against four in PSG's final third, before Bryan Mbeumo scored.
Read more on Manchester United's possible tactics for the 2026-27 season
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