Andrey Santos’ backing for Michael Carrick came with an apology to Manchester United’s travelling supporters after the defeat at Atletico Madrid.
It was reported by United In Focus from his post-match DAZN interview. The midfielder’s message combined regret over the 2-0 loss with a call to work harder before United’s next game.
Apology to United supporters after Madrid defeat
United In Focus reported Santos’ backing for Carrick: Santos said sorry to supporters who had travelled to Spain. He stressed that United want to win every match, but that the immediate task was to put in the work needed to return to winning form.
The Daily Mail also reported the apology and his support for the manager. Its account quotes Santos saying that the players believe in Carrick, the staff and themselves.
“We believe in the manager.”
That sentence, expressing Santos’ backing for Carrick, appears in both reports. It is a public statement of support from Santos, rather than evidence about every private conversation inside the squad.
United must respond to another setback
Santos started the Champions League match in Madrid. United conceded early and were unable to turn their chances into an equaliser before Leny Yoro’s dismissal made the task harder.
Ademola Lookman’s second goal secured the points for Atletico. Santos’ backing for Carrick focused on improvement rather than excuses for the result.
In the Daily Mail’s account, he acknowledged that the way United began had complicated the game. He said the team needed to improve and return stronger for the next match.
Santos Carrick backing turns attention to Leeds
United travel to Elland Road to face Leeds on Sunday. The match brings a quick opportunity to respond to the disappointment in Spain.
Santos’ backing for Carrick places responsibility on the players as well as expressing trust in the manager. His apology recognises the supporters’ journey, while his proposed response is work on the pitch.
Read our Atletico match report for the result. The interview is reported by United In Focus and the Daily Mail.
