Carrick backs Leny Yoro ahead of Manchester United’s visit to Fulham
By Joel Masibo, September 20, 2026Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has thrown his support behind Leny Yoro, insisting the young defender has plenty of time to develop despite criticism following the club’s Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton.
Yoro, who is only 20, was among the players questioned after United surrendered a two-goal advantage before losing 3-2 to Brighton in midweek, a result that ended their Carabao Cup campaign.
However, heading into Sunday’s, September 20, 2026 Premier League visit to Fulham, Carrick rejected the idea that Yoro should be singled out for the defensive problems and stressed that the Frenchman remains an important part of United’s long-term plans.
“I’ve got no worries for Leny. I think he does a lot of really good things and it’s part of learning,” Carrick said.
The United boss also dismissed suggestions that Yoro had reached a point where he must immediately establish himself as a consistently dominant defender simply because he is entering his third season at the club.
“No, he’s 20, Leny, you know? And again, in context, he’s got a fantastic future ahead of him and a lot of potential, and he’s learning, he’s developing,” Carrick said.
The former United midfielder pointed out that centre-back is a demanding position, particularly for a player still at the beginning of his career.
While some defenders establish themselves at the highest level at 18, Carrick noted that others take longer, with players sometimes making significant progress at 22, 23 or even 24.
“There’s definitely no cut-off point,” he added. “He’s just got to keep progressing and moving in the right direction, wanting to learn, keep improving, getting more opportunities.”
Carrick also highlighted the support available to Yoro at United, with experienced former defenders Jonny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate among those working with the younger players.
“Leny’s fortunate, he’s got some really good coaches that have lived it and understand his position,” Carrick said.
He believes that environment can help Yoro navigate the difficult moments that naturally come with developing as a young centre-back.
“Sometimes it’s tough, other times he’s done particularly well. So, he’ll keep developing. He’ll keep developing, he’ll keep learning. He’s in a good place. He’s got a big future.”
Carrick’s comments come as United attempt to respond to a difficult spell that has included defensive lapses and the loss of a two-goal lead against Brighton.
United have conceded 10 goals in their opening six games, prompting questions about their defensive organisation. Carrick acknowledged that improvement is necessary but insisted the issue cannot simply be placed on the back four or goalkeeper.
“Yeah, we need to improve, no doubt. As a team, collectively, it’s not just a backline or a goalkeeper, it’s a collective thing. So yeah, we definitely need to improve that.”
With United preparing to face Fulham, Carrick has urged his players to move beyond the recent setbacks rather than allow individual incidents to define their season.
The manager also admitted that the controversial decision in the Manchester derby, which officials later acknowledged was incorrect, had a significant impact on that match.
Still, he believes United must focus on their response.
“We can’t let it have an impact on the rest of the season. That’s for us to get back to winning ways as soon as possible.” He said.