It’s too early to declare a full-scale “red revival” at Manchester United, but a palpable shift is underway under interim coach Michael Carrick. Three victories in three matches – including a notable Manchester derby win and a thrilling 3-2 result against Arsenal – have demonstrably lifted the mood at Old Trafford. Even Sunday’s win over Fulham, while less dominant, arrived in the dramatic fashion reminiscent of the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
United supporters are cautiously optimistic, with a Saturday encounter against Tottenham offering a chance to secure a five-game winning streak – a feat not seen recently. However, a sense of realism prevails. few are ready to uncork the champagne just yet. The central question remains: is this upturn merely a “new manager bounce,” or does it signal a more substantial and sustainable improvement?
One thing is clear: Carrick, 44, whose elegant midfield play was integral to five Premier League title triumphs under Ferguson, appears to have identified and addressed key issues within a squad that often appeared directionless during the tenure of Ruben Amorim.
Amorim’s preference for a 3-4-2-1 system, even when seemingly unsuited to the available personnel, ultimately proved detrimental. He departed leaving United with the worst goals-per-game ratio and the lowest percentage of clean sheets in the club’s Premier League history.
Carrick’s approach has been markedly different. Players have responded positively to a manager who understands the weight of expectation at Old Trafford, a weight he carried himself during a distinguished playing career. Where Amorim publicly criticized his players – once stating they were “possibly the worst team in United’s history” – Carrick has adopted a calmer, more measured demeanor. His sideline presence, often clad in a smart overcoat, is composed, and his press conferences are characterized by direct, unembellished answers. He avoids the creation of unnecessary headlines and the associated soap opera that plagued the Amorim era.
Players are likely impressed by a leader who projects professionalism and humility. Beyond the demeanor, Carrick has implemented crucial tactical adjustments.
Most significantly, Carrick has abandoned Amorim’s system in favor of a traditional back four, supported by two defensive midfielders, and a fluid front four. This tactical shift has allowed Bruno Fernandes, United’s captain and most influential player, to operate closer to the opposition goal, maximizing his impact. The dummy he executed against Fulham’s Calvin Bassey before assisting Benjamin Sesko for the stoppage-time winner exemplifies this improved attacking dynamic.
The return to a back four also unlocks the potential of Amad Diallo, who was burdened with excessive defensive responsibilities under Amorim. Now, Amad can focus on his primary strengths as an attacking winger.
Carrick has also reintegrated Kobbie Mainoo, who had been exiled under Amorim. The young England international’s return adds quality to the midfield. He has also recalled Harry Maguire and reinstated Luke Shaw to his preferred position at left back. The fitness of Lisandro Martínez alongside Maguire has further solidified the defense.
United’s attack is flourishing. Under Carrick, they have scored eight goals in three games, trailing only the top two in the scoring charts.
Carrick has simply placed players in positions where they can thrive. A dose of common sense has prevailed.
However, Manchester United are not yet a force to be reckoned with, nor are they poised to challenge for the title. This team still has limitations. Even securing a top-four finish and qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League will be a significant challenge, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Aston Villa all vying for those coveted Champions League spots.
A key area for improvement remains the defensive midfield position. United need a player with aggression, stamina, and creative ability – someone like Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest.
Carrick and United have yet to prove anything definitive. However, they have established a foundation for a potential return to the Champions League, which must be the primary objective this season.
If Carrick can achieve that goal, his claim to the permanent managerial position will be compelling. He has served a lengthy apprenticeship, performed admirably at Middlesbrough, and is now working with a higher caliber of players. He is not an inexperienced novice.
Should United falter and revert to their previous inconsistencies, several high-profile managers are likely to become available in the summer, including the current England manager Thomas Tuchel, or perhaps Cesc Fabregas, who is making a positive impact at Como in Italy.
Will Carrick rescue his former club from its recent struggles? United fans hope so, but do they truly believe?
