The resurgence of Manchester United under Michael Carrick continues to defy expectations, but the narrative is evolving beyond simply racking up wins. While initial victories against high-profile opponents like Manchester City and Arsenal grabbed headlines, Carrick’s true test lies in navigating matches against teams they are expected to overcome – and demonstrating the ability to grind out results even when not at their best. The recent draw against West Ham United at London Stadium, secured by a 95th-minute equaliser from Rasmus Højlund, exemplifies this new dimension to United’s play.
Carrick’s arrival followed a period of turbulence, culminating in the dismissal of Ruben Amorim after a frustrating draw at Leeds. Few predicted the immediate impact he would have, yet United quickly climbed the Premier League table, currently sitting in fourth place and firmly in contention for a Champions League spot – a scenario that seemed improbable just weeks ago. The team is now unbeaten in nine league games, a run that spans the tenures of three different managers, including a brief interim period under Darren Fletcher.
The 2-2 draw with West Ham wasn’t a dominant performance, but it showcased a crucial characteristic that defined Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary Manchester United sides: a relentless refusal to surrender. Carrick’s willingness to take risks in pursuit of a positive result, even late in the game, echoes Ferguson’s tactical boldness. Where Amorim might have settled for damage control, Carrick actively sought a breakthrough.
The contrast in in-game management was stark. When United drew with West Ham at Old Trafford in December under Amorim, the substitutions focused on defensive stability and a minimal offensive push. The final changes saw a defender replace another, with promising young talents like Kobbie Mainoo and Shea Lacey remaining on the bench. At London Stadium, Carrick’s gamble involved introducing Mason Højlund for a full-back, switching to a back three, and committing more players forward in a desperate attempt to find a goal.
“It’s always worth it to try and get something out of the game,” Carrick stated after the match. “We all want the perfect kind of performance, to be the best we can be. Sometimes it doesn’t quite happen, but it doesn’t mean you give up. Obviously we went for it, with three at the back and the rest all attacking basically to try and find that goal. That’s the way we should do it.”
This proactive approach, a willingness to chase victory until the final whistle, is resonating with fans and players alike. It’s a departure from the more cautious tactics employed previously and a clear indication that Carrick is imprinting his own philosophy on the team. The late winners against Arsenal and Fulham, and now the dramatic equaliser against West Ham, are not merely points gained. they are statements of intent.
Carrick’s success isn’t solely about late goals and tactical tweaks. He’s also fostered a renewed sense of freedom and confidence within the squad. Players appear more willing to express themselves, and the team is rediscovering the attacking fluidity that was once a hallmark of Manchester United’s play. This echoes the initial impact Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had upon his arrival in 2018, a parallel that has not gone unnoticed.
However, the question remains: can Carrick sustain this momentum? The initial burst of form following Amorim’s departure was expected to some degree, as a change in leadership often provides a temporary lift. The true test will come in the coming weeks, as United face a series of challenging fixtures. The ability to consistently deliver winning performances against both top-tier opposition and teams in the lower half of the table will ultimately determine whether this revival is a genuine turning point or another false dawn.
Carrick acknowledges the challenges ahead. “We know how hard it is to put a run together in this league,” he said. “Sometimes it comes naturally, it flows and everything clicks. You look really dangerous and there’s a spark. Sometimes it’s a little bit stodgy.” He understands that consistency is key, and that even when the team isn’t playing at its best, it must find a way to secure results.
The 13 points earned from his first 15 games in charge is a promising start, but Carrick is focused on building a long-term foundation. He’s instilling a spirit of resilience and a never-say-die attitude that is reminiscent of the club’s most successful era. As he prepares for the next block of matches, he’ll be equally pleased with the character and determination his team has demonstrated, qualities that suggest this revival may have legs.
