Stunned by set-piece failures against the newly promoted Tigers, a frustrated manager demands immediate tactical improvements before Old Trafford hosts a vital rebound opportunity against Ipswich Town.
Manchester United's opening game of the Premier League season delivered a shock defeat at the hands of newly promoted Hull City. The Tigers outplayed Carrick's men, winning the game in the first half.
Centre back Semi Ajayi scored first after Oli McBurnie forced Senne Lammens into a great save, but the rebound fell into the path of the Nigerian, who smashed his effort into an open goal with 17 minutes played.
It was another set piece which doubled Hull's lead as Regan Slater delivered a lovely cross towards the back post from a free kick. His ball found the leaping Nobel Mendy on his debut, who headed the ball past a helpless Lammens after finding himself unchallenged at the back post.
A bitter reality check for United after a stellar second half of the season last time out, as Hull put a halt to Michael Carrick's momentum. The United manager spoke out following the game, addressing the issues heading into next week against Ipswich.
Carrick remains calm
After United's loss, Carrick explained his perspective with the season now underway.
He explained: "One game doesn't change the whole direction of everything, but we need to be aware where we need to improve.
"We'll stay calm, in our bubble... it's one game."
He also stated: "I might be talking calmly to you [press conference], but I am not calm inside and enjoying the day."
Last season clearly proved that things can turn around for United as they made the surprise push to finish third in the Premier League after what was an initially poor start.
Carrick's levelheadedness was a commendable trait last season as he remained sensible in the highs and lows of last season. United's loss against Hull made clear the areas that need addressing in the squad from both a recruitment side and a tactical side.
The 45-year-old seems confident in himself and his squad to make the necessary improvements in the squad.
What do Man Utd change against Ipswich?
United host Ipswich in their next game, this time at Old Trafford, where the home support will play a huge role.
The loss to Hull exposed United's poor delivery and chance creation from wide as well as highlighted their poor defending on set pieces, which cost them twice.
Ipswich will likely be another game where United see the majority of the ball, as the opposition look to hurt them on the break and through set pieces. Carrick opted to swap Patrick Dorgu for Marcus Rashford at half-time. A change which fans saw to be necessary, with Dorgu often giving the ball away in tight spaces.
Facing more compact defences would suit Rashford's ability more, with the Englishman more technically sound. Meanwhile, Dorgu thrives more when he has the ability to break quickly into space, as proven in pre-season and against the likes of Manchester City last season.
In terms of the defence, the likelihood of a new left back being at the club ready to play is slim. With Luke Shaw on the decline, Tyrell Malacia having left the club and Dorgu moving to a more attacking role, the priority surely must be bringing in a technical, athletic profile to slot straight into Carrick's side.
