Carrick Faces Alonso, Simeone and Fabregas in October

Michael Carrick faces a demanding October schedule at Manchester United, with the manager set to come up against Xabi Alonso, Diego Simeone and Cesc Fàbregas in the space of 11 days.

United first travel to Fulham on September 20, with Carrick already under increased pressure following a difficult start to the season. The Red Devils have managed just one Premier League victory from their opening four matches and were also eliminated from the Carabao Cup by Brighton after surrendering a two-goal lead. Reuters reported on Thursday that another setback at Fulham could further increase the pressure on Carrick.

After the international break, United return to action against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on October 10.

Three days later, Carrick's side will travel to Spain to face Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. The fixture at the Metropolitano is scheduled for October 13.

United then return to Premier League action against Leeds United on October 18 before facing another Champions League test away from home.

On October 21, Carrick's side travel to Italy to take on Como, managed by former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fàbregas.

That gives Carrick three encounters with high-profile managers in a demanding period of the season.

United will then host Bournemouth on October 25 before travelling to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on October 31.

The Chelsea fixture will also provide another interesting managerial battle, with Xabi Alonso currently in charge of the London club.

Carrick's immediate priority, however, is the trip to Fulham. With pressure already building around his position, the result at Craven Cottage could have an important bearing on the atmosphere surrounding the club heading into the October international break.