It is still too early to talk about a “Manchester United resurgence” or declare an end to the club’s recent dark era. Yet, one fact is undeniable: something has changed since Michael Carrick stepped in as interim manager.
Three wins in three games, including a decisive victory over Manchester City and a dramatic 3-2 triumph at Arsenal, have shifted the atmosphere at Old Trafford, previously tinged with frustration and disappointment.
Even the weekend win against Fulham, while not flawless, reminded fans of United’s glory days under Sir Alex Ferguson, with a last-minute goal sealing the match. Supporters are now daring to dream again. A win against Tottenham this Saturday would bring the Red Devils closer to five consecutive victories, a feat long absent from Old Trafford.
Yet, caution remains. The burning question is whether this surge is merely a “new manager bounce” or the start of a deeper, sustainable revival. One thing is certain: Michael Carrick, now 44, appears to have hit the right buttons.
A Former Midfielder Guides His Team
As a former midfielder known for precise passing, Carrick played a vital role in five Premier League titles under Ferguson. He now brings that vision to a squad that struggled for direction under Ruben Amorim.
Amorim’s era left United floundering with a rigid 3-4-2-1 system, which didn’t align with player strengths. The team recorded its lowest goals-per-game ratio and poorest clean sheet percentage in the Premier League era.
Carrick, by contrast, has adopted a calm, player-centric approach. Honoring his status as a former United player, he quickly earned respect in the dressing room. Unlike Amorim, who openly criticized the squad, even labeling it “perhaps the worst in United’s history,” Carrick maintains composure on the sidelines. His demeanor is understated, professional, and focused on results rather than drama.
Tactical Adjustments Revitalize United
Carrick’s tactical tweaks have transformed the team. Moving away from Amorim’s system, he reverted to a four-defender formation with two defensive midfielders and a more fluid four-man attack.
This shift benefits key players like Bruno Fernandes, now positioned closer to goal where he thrives. Against Fulham, Bruno showcased this by beating Calvin Bassey and delivering the decisive assist for Benjamin Sesko in stoppage time.
Amad Diallo, previously burdened with defensive wing-back duties, now operates as a pure winger, stretching defenses and creating opportunities. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo has returned to the first-team fold, reinforcing United’s midfield after being sidelined under Amorim.
At the back, Harry Maguire has resumed command, Luke Shaw is back at left-back, and Lisandro Martínez has returned to full fitness, pairing effectively with Maguire. Up front, Bryan Mbeumo flourishes as a flexible false nine, and Matheus Cunha contributes with game-changing moments, including two goals in recent matches.
United’s attack has been sharp, producing eight goals in three games, second only to the league’s top-scoring sides. Simply put, Carrick has put players in positions to succeed and allowed them to play with freedom and confidence.
Hope, but Realism Prevails
This revival does not mean Manchester United suddenly dominate the Premier League. The team is still not ready to leap from fourth place into title contention. Securing a top-four finish and Champions League qualification remains a formidable task, with Liverpool, Chelsea, and Aston Villa in close pursuit.
United still require a defensive midfielder with stamina, creativity, and aggression—qualities someone like Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) or Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) could provide.
The reality is clear: neither Carrick nor the Red Devils have definitively proven their long-term potential yet. However, the foundations for a return to Champions League contention are being laid, which should be the club’s priority this season.
Should Carrick successfully secure this objective, his case for permanent appointment will strengthen considerably. He is not an inexperienced coach; his long apprenticeship, solid stint at Middlesbrough, and current work with high-quality players give him a credible resume.
Conversely, if United slip back into mediocrity by May, the club could pursue high-profile names in the summer, from England’s national team coach Thomas Tuchel to emerging talents like Cesc Fabregas at Como in Italy.
Will Michael Carrick ultimately rescue his former club from recent traumas? Fans hope so. But whether they truly believe it remains an open question.
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