Manchester United manager Michael Carrick believes his side are strong enough to compete with the best teams in Europe as they return to the Champions League for the first time in three years.
Carrick earned the permanent role after guiding the Red Devils to a third-place finish in the Premier League during his interim spell last season.
Having secured a spot in Europe's premier club competition, United begin their league phase campaign on Thursday against Azerbaijani champions Sabah at Old Trafford.
"It's a magical competition. It's where we all want to be. When you're out of it, you realize how special it is, and when you're in it, you want to make the most of it," Carrick told reporters on Wednesday.
"I think we've all seen some special nights and felt special things in this competition over the years. It's the best competition to challenge yourself and push against the best."
"We're delighted to be here, but we're not here just to enjoy the occasion. We're here to do business and go as far as we possibly can."
In two of their last three Champions League appearances, the three-time European champions have crashed out at the group stage, and they have not advanced beyond the last 16 since 2019.
United have also made a slow start to the Premier League season, taking just four points from fixtures against Hull, Ipswich, and Everton.
However, many of their better performances under Carrick have come against stronger opposition. United beat Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea in the second half of last season.
"I think we're capable of doing some really good things in this competition, and going further down the line," Carrick said. "Certainly not getting ahead of ourselves because some part of it is a new experience for some of the players."
"But the boys are used to playing European football for the most part in different competitions, and we'll take that forward. We've got a squad that's strong enough to compete."
In contrast to the record spending by many Premier League rivals, United were only able to strengthen their midfield in the transfer window.
United benefited last season from playing only 40 games – their lowest total since the 1914-15 campaign. Carrick, though, said his players had to embrace the challenge of a heavier workload.
"We play Thursday, Sunday, Wednesday – it's what we're here for. It's about managing the group and having trust in everyone able to play," he said.
Benjamin Sesko is in contention for his first start of the season after coming off the bench to score in Sunday's 2-2 draw at Everton.
Carrick confirmed Matthijs de Ligt is also nearing a comeback after nearly a year out with a back injury.
Source: www.aljazeera.com