Carrick Thankful For Testimonial Support

Michael Carrick’s Testimonial game raised an incredible £1.5million, which will be distributed to his chosen charities through the newly-created Michael Carrick Foundation, itself a registered charity.

The highlight of the testimonial was the match featuring Manchester United ’08 XI v Michael Carrick All-Stars which was played at Old Trafford on Sunday 4 June, 2017. An incredible 70,000 fans came to Old Trafford to support the game.

Michael fittingly scored the final goal in the match as a United 08' XI twice came from behind to draw 2-2 with an All-Star team in front of the huge crowd. Sir Alex Ferguson was back in the dugout to manage a line-up formed largely from his Premier League and Champions League-winning squad of 2008, with many fans' favourites returning to grace the famous turf again.

Before the game kicked off, Carrick addressed the crowd and the players, thanking everyone for their support throughout his distinguished career so far. A minute's silence then followed as a mark of respect to the victims of the terror attacks in Manchester in May and London in June.

The testimonial was awarded by Manchester United following Michael’s service of over 11 years to the club and Michael knew at this point that he wanted to use this as a vehicle for good. The charities to which the testimonial proceeds will be distributed by the Foundation will be based in Manchester and Newcastle initially, focusing on ensuring that children have suitable provision in the community that will keep them safe and engaged in positive activities.

With children’s centres across the UK losing funding and being shut down every day, Michael wants to ensure that children in the communities close to his heart do not suffer. The first project to launch in the New Year will be a collaboration with the Manchester United Foundation, offering free sport and enrichment sessions to local children.

The project will use the local passion for Manchester United to inspire youngsters and help them to learn positive skills such as discipline, confidence and ambition. The overall aim of the Foundation is to help children to reach their full potential by creating opportunities for them to feel safe, valued and inspired to achieve. There will be a number of new projects coming on board next year.

Michael Carrick said: "To be given a testimonial at this great football club, is something I didn’t take lightly at all. I’m blown away by all the support we received and I’m so thrilled to announce that we raised £1.5 million for the Michael Carrick foundation.

"Looking back at the day, it was special for so many different reasons. From having old team-mates, the manager and staff back together. Finally, sharing a pitch and playing alongside my brother. Having close friends and family who have been on the journey with me watching in the stands, to having my kids with me on the pitch and seeing their faces, creating amazing memories that will live with us forever.

"It was way and above what we could have hoped for. I want to say a huge 'thank you' to each and every one of you who have contributed in some way, however big or small. It is something I’m very proud of and I’m committed to making sure all the money raised goes to children in local communities to help them develop and fulfil their potential. The work starts now."