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Carrick's tactical masterclass stuns Manchester City
Michael Carrick marked his second spell as Manchester United manager with a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester City, leaving Pep Guardiola's side stunned at Old Trafford on Sunday.
A performance beyond expectations
Guardiola admitted his team might have lost even if United's Diogo Dalot had been sent off in the opening minutes. The result added Guardiola's name to a growing list of top-flight managers defeated by Carrick this season, including Unai Emery, Mikel Arteta, and Thomas Tuchel.
Reflecting on the win, Carrick remained characteristically measured. "It's a great start, there's no getting away from that," he said, smiling. "But consistency is the key to any success. If you can find that, you're on to a winner."
Midfield foundation and defensive resilience
The partnership of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro in midfield provided the platform for United's victory. Mainoo, previously sidelined under former manager Ruben Amorim, thrived alongside the veteran Brazilian, who Carrick praised for his leadership.
Defensively, Harry Maguire's return was pivotal. Starting his first game since November 8, Maguire and Lisandro Martinez suffocated Erling Haaland, limiting City to their second-lowest expected goals (xG) total-0.45-in 364 Premier League matches under Guardiola.
"It was a big ask of 'H' and credit to him. We could take it for granted sometimes, what players do. He has literally trained for two or three days over the last eight or nine weeks, so it was a bit of a calculated gamble. But he has come through it and he was fantastic."
Michael Carrick
Tactical discipline dismantles City
United's 4-4-2 formation, executed with precision, disrupted City's rhythm. Despite holding just 32% possession, United's compact shape and high-intensity pressing limited City's creativity. Wingers Amad Diallo and Patrick Dorgu played crucial roles, with Dorgu nullifying Rico Lewis's influence and Amad dropping into a back five to contain Jeremy Doku.
In attack, Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo's positioning around Rodri created constant problems, while Matheus Cunha's combination play with Dorgu set up United's second goal.
Praise from legends and fans
Former United captains Gary Neville and Roy Keane, initially skeptical of Carrick's appointment, were full of praise. Neville described the performance as "heaven" for Carrick, while Keane called it a "perfect afternoon" for United. Wayne Rooney added: "That is the best performance I have seen from a Man Utd side in a long, long time."
Old Trafford erupted in celebration, with fans reigniting the stadium's famed atmosphere. "The players certainly fed off it," Carrick said. "They left the changing room unbelievably desperate to do well. The supporters were incredible."
Building on a magical start
While Carrick dismissed suggestions of a long-term future, the win has reignited hope among United's fanbase. "We're not getting carried away massively, but you've got to enjoy that feeling when you get it," he said. "It's something we need to build on."
