Carrick provides latest Manchester United squad news ahead of Everton visit
By Joel Masibo, September 6, 2026Manchester United head into Sunday’s, September 6, 2026, Premier League meeting with Everton, with several players still working their way back to full fitness.
Michael Carrick’s side travel to Hill Dickinson Stadium aiming to build on their emphatic 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town last weekend, but the manager continues to deal with a number of fitness concerns within his squad.
One of the main positives is the progress being made by Benjamin Šeško. The Slovenia international has made substitute appearances after missing all six of United’s pre-season fixtures, and Carrick believes the striker is gradually approaching full match fitness.
“Ben’s improving, he’s been improving his fitness all the time,” the boss said.
“He had some time off, which was important – that we give him the time, to make sure he was right moving forward, with no setbacks.
“You can never guarantee that, but it gives Ben the chance to stay fit for as long as possible. He made big strides last season and he’s still young and still adapting and learning and developing here.
“There’s loads more to come from Ben, so it’s just being patient with him really.
“I’m really happy with how he’s come back, so looking forward to seeing him on the pitch a little bit more,” the tactician said.
Carrick’s comments suggest Šeško could be edging closer to being considered for a starting role, although United are expected to continue managing his return carefully.
Amad’s situation
Meanwhile, Amad remains unavailable for selection after yet to feature this season. Mason Mount is also yet to play a competitive match this campaign, although there is encouragement surrounding his condition after he took part in training at Carrington during the week.
Carrick confirmed there was no further update on the squad ahead of the Everton trip, meaning United’s existing injury situation remains largely unchanged.
Matthijs de Ligt is another player continuing his rehabilitation. The defender has trained with the squad since United’s camp in the Republic of Ireland as he works towards returning following back surgery.
Manuel Ugarte faces a considerably longer spell on the sidelines. The midfielder remains a long-term absentee after sustaining a knee injury while representing Uruguay at the FIFA World Cup in June 2026.
United will therefore hope their available players can maintain the momentum generated by the Ipswich win while those recovering from injury continue their respective rehabilitation programmes.
The Everton encounter will provide another opportunity for Carrick’s team to strengthen their start to the Premier League campaign, with the manager likely to remain cautious over players who are not yet fully ready for regular first-team action.