Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has dismissed growing public criticism from former players, insisting he does not pay attention to external commentary as he prepares his team to face Chelsea on Saturday.
The 45-year-old remains in charge following a 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth last Sunday. Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Carrick said he focuses entirely on the supporters and the team's performances rather than outside opinions.
"I don't look for it - it doesn't really help in any way," Carrick said when asked about handling remarks from former teammates. He added that his priority remains the matchday fans, saying he genuinely takes no notice of anything else.
The pressure on United comes amid unprecedented media coverage, with Amazon camera crews currently filming behind the scenes at Old Trafford for an All or Nothing documentary series. At the same time, numerous former United players have established influential digital channels and podcasts scrutinising the club's fortunes.
Former captain Gary Neville accused some squad members of poor professionalism following the Bournemouth loss, stating: "There's a couple of them... I live in Manchester and they're not that professional, some of them." Neville operates The Overlap digital network, which expanded after acquiring channels previously run by influencer Brent di Cesare, also known as Mark Goldbridge.
Other prominent former players have also voiced sharp opinions. Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane recently questioned the squad and coaching staff on digital shows, while Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes regularly analyse the team on their own podcast.
The intense media environment has previously drawn comment from former manager Erik ten Hag, who noted that ex-players' platforms could burden current squads. "Sometimes it's difficult for players. Some of them get affected by it, get annoyed by it," Ten Hag said, while acknowledging the former players' deep connection to the club.
