Carrick backs strengthened United despite lower spend than promoted rivals

United's summer business centred on revamping midfield ranks, bringing in Andrey Santos from Chelsea, Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Carlos Baleba from Brighton, while goalkeeper Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer from Leeds, according to Sky Sports.

The spending ranked below that of promoted rivals, prompting Gary Neville to call for defensive reinforcement before the window shut. Carrick, however, remains convinced the quality has arrived.

"I think we've brought some really good players into the football club, and improved the squad in different ways," the manager said during a charity golf event. "I'm convinced we are stronger than we were at the start."

The upturn in mood follows a difficult opening weekend—a humbling defeat to Hull City—before United responded with a 5-2 demolition of Ipswich at home. Carrick highlighted the squad's resilience, saying the comeback showed character and mentality.

Bruno Fernandes stole the show against Ipswich with a hat-trick and assist, continuing to deliver the standout individual performances that have defined United's campaign so far. Neville rated him as the club's best signing post-Sir Alex Ferguson.