Michael Carrick snaps at ‘ridiculous’ question after Man Utd suffer 2-0 defeat to Hull City

Michael Carrick was visibly frustrated after Manchester United began their 2026/27 Premier League campaign with a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Hull City — but it was one particular question after the final whistle that appeared to push the United boss over the edge.

United dominated possession for long spells, seeing more than 70% of the ball, yet they were unable to turn that control into goals. Hull, meanwhile, made the most of their opportunities, scoring twice from set-pieces to secure all three points and leave Carrick facing an early setback at the start of his reign.

Carrick rejects claims United lacked passion

The result naturally prompted questions about United’s performance, particularly their failure to make their dominance count in front of goal.

During his post-match interview with Viaplay, Carrick was questioned by former footballer Jan Fjortoft about whether his players had shown enough passion to win the game.

The question clearly struck a nerve.

Carrick responded:

“Oh come on, that’s ridiculous! You played football. You understand. That’s a ridiculous thing to say. Just because you get beat doesn’t mean you don’t care about it.”

The United boss then pointed to the circumstances surrounding Hull’s goals, arguing that the defeat was not down to a lack of desire from his players.

“Their two goals came from set plays. Other than that, we had opportunities. That was where the game was. I don’t think it was passion or anything to do with that. I think it was just their moments that made the difference in the game.”

Carrick’s reaction underlined his determination to defend his squad rather than allow the opening-day defeat to become a question of commitment or attitude.

“Come on, that’s ridiculous.”

Michael Carrick wasn’t happy when asked if there was a lack of passion from #mufc in their first half vs Hull.

via @ViaplayFotball pic.twitter.com/zyca5r5iSr

— utdreport (@utdreport) August 23, 2026

United’s possession fails to produce a result

For much of the contest, United had control of the ball, but Hull proved more effective when the decisive moments arrived.

Despite enjoying well over 70% possession, Carrick’s side failed to find the net even once. Hull, on the other hand, converted their opportunities from set-pieces and held on to claim a memorable opening-day victory.

That contrast will be particularly frustrating for Carrick, with United controlling large portions of the match without finding the cutting edge required to turn possession into goals.

The manager will now have to ensure his players respond quickly rather than allowing the defeat to affect the early stages of the campaign.

Carrick expects a response at Old Trafford

Although the defeat was an unwanted start to the 2026/27 season, Carrick has made it clear that he does not believe a lack of passion explains what happened at Hull.

Instead, he will expect United to address the areas that cost them the match and deliver a more clinical performance in their next fixture.

The Red Devils are due to face Ipswich Town at Old Trafford next, giving Carrick and his players an immediate opportunity to put the disappointing result behind them.

After defending his squad so firmly following the defeat, the United boss will now be looking for a response on the pitch — particularly in front of goal.