Man Utd news: Michael Carrick reacts to apology as he's told whole season hinges on one star

It's hasn't exactly been an ideal start to the new season for Manchester United . Results and performances on the pitch have been inconsistent, while off it, the club has had plenty to contend with.

Injuries have disrupted Michael Carrick's plans, with marquee summer signing Carlos Baleba forced to wait weeks for his debut after arriving at United last month. VAR controversies have added to the frustration, while the situation surrounding academy starlet JJ Gabriel has provided another unwanted distraction.

The 15-year-old is reportedly pushing to leave United , despite the club viewing him as a potential first-team player in the future. Taken together, it has made for a particularly eventful opening few weeks at Old Trafford.

Now, though, the first international break of the season offers United an opportunity to take stock and regroup before domestic football resumes next month. With that in mind, here are the latest Manchester United headlines.

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Michael Carrick has played down the significance of the apology Manchester United received from Pro Ref, formerly known as PGMOL, after a VAR error allowed Manchester City's winner in the Manchester derby to stand.

Pro Ref chief Howard Webb admitted an officiating mistake had been made after Erling Haaland's decisive goal was allowed to stand despite City team-mate Enzo Fernandez being in an offside position. The goal had initially been ruled out before a VAR review overturned the on-field decision.

The decision immediately attracted scrutiny, with questions raised over how Fernandez's position had not been taken into account during the review. An apology was subsequently issued to United shortly after the final whistle.

Carrick remains supportive of VAR but admits the apology did little to ease his frustration over what happened. "Listen, one-off things can happen," he said. "I've got faith in [the system] of course... [but] the apology doesn't mean an awful lot.

"I can appreciate it and I respect them for putting their hands up and saying 'we got that wrong'. It happens. Moving forward, we just have to deal with what's thrown in front of us."

Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha believes the club's season could hinge on whether Carlos Baleba can step into the void left by Casemiro and establish himself as their new midfield anchor.

Baleba joined United from Brighton for £70million this summer and is expected to take over as the side's first-choice No. 6. Casemiro had occupied that role for several years before leaving Old Trafford, and Saha believes Baleba has the attributes to fill his predecessor's shoes.

However, the Frenchman has warned that United need Baleba to hit the ground running, arguing that his ability to drive the team forward could be crucial to unlocking their attacking players.

"Manchester United's season will only truly begin once Carlos Baleba is fit enough to be the starting, first-choice midfielder in the team," the Frenchman said.