{
  "id": 6061100,
  "title": "Carrick defends Man Utd start despite defensive concerns",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/06/carrick-defends-man-utd-start-despite-defensive-concerns",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-06T23:01:46.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/football/2026/09/1527205/carrick-defends-man-utd-start-despite-defensive-concerns"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Manchester United's opening Premier League season was not as disastrous as it might seem, despite conceding twice in their 2-2 draw with Everton, according to midfielder Michael Carrick. The team started strongly against Hull and Ipswich, but have only managed four points from their first three games. Carrick defended the team's performance, stating that \"it's not that bad\" and that there are moments they can improve. United invested in Carrick's midfield for the new season, with only Youri Tielemans consistently starting the last two games. The decision not to strengthen the defense could be problematic, given their three consecutive goal concede. They face a tougher challenge against Manchester City next weekend. Carrick acknowledged the need to concede fewer goals and will strive for improvement. Marcus Rashford has been particularly impressive since his return to the club, creating opportunities and posing a significant threat.",
  "summary": "LIVERPOOL: Michael Carrick said Manchester United’s start to the Premier League season has not been “that bad” despite conceding twice late on to draw 2-2 at Everton on Sunday.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Carrick defends Man Utd start despite defensive concerns",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/06/carrick-defends-man-utd-start-despite-defensive-concerns-6070174",
        "published": "2026-09-06T23:40:52.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}