Michael Carrick, Manchester United manager, acknowledged he anticipated a difficult period this season, despite securing third place in the Premier League and Champions League qualification last season. United has only four points from four league games and was eliminated from the League Cup by Brighton, losing 3-2 after blowing a two-goal lead. Carrick dismissed questions about his long-term role, stating his focus is on performance and upcoming games. He cited historical patterns of successful teams enduring tough spells and highlighted recent bad luck, including a wrongly awarded goal for Erling Haaland against Manchester City and a stunning equalizer from Ainsley Maitland-Niles for Everton. Luke Shaw and Carlos Baleba might return for the upcoming match against Fulham.