Carrick’s perfect start picks up pace
The win against Spurs maintained Carrick’s 100 per cent record since taking over as head coach and further strengthened his case to be considered for the role long-term. United captain Bruno Fernandes believes Carrick’s deep connection with the club has played a vital role in the turnaround. Speaking to TNT Sports, Fernandes said Carrick understands what winning means to the fans and the club and how much it takes to succeed at Manchester United, adding that this knowledge brings something special to the team.
United return to the Champions League journey
It is the first time in two years that United have won four consecutive Premier League games and the latest victory reignited hopes of a return to the Champions League after missing out on the past two seasons. Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring in the 38th minute at Old Trafford with a low finish from a corner to score his 10th goal in his debut season at the club. Fernandes added a second late on to seal the result. Tottenham’s task was made even tougher when captain Cristian Romero was sent off in the 29th minute, leaving his side with 10 men for most of the game.
Carrick’s influence since taking charge
Carrick joined last month following the sacking of Ruben Amorim and was initially given a contract until the end of the season. Having enjoyed a brief transition period in 2021, his immediate impact has now put him firmly in contention as United’s hierarchy consider their long-term plans. Fernandes said Carrick came up with the right ideas, gave players responsibility and communicated clearly. He added that he always believed Carrick could become a strong manager and that belief is now being justified on the pitch. United are currently fourth in the table with 44 points and have already surpassed last season’s total of 42 points across the entire campaign. Even if they exited both domestic cup competitions, Champions League qualification would still represent a successful season.
A tale of two captains
Fernandes once again led from the front, scoring in the 81st minute with a controlled shin finish. The goal marked his 200th goal involvement for United since joining the club in 2020. Carrick praised his captain’s influence, describing him as a dedicated team player who consistently delivers in the big moments. In contrast, Tottenham captain Romero endured a difficult afternoon. Having previously been branded “disgraceful” that Spurs were reduced to 11 fit players during last week’s draw with Manchester City, Romero did not help his side this time as he saw red for a dangerous challenge on Casemiro. According to Opta, it was Romero’s sixth suspension since joining Tottenham in 2021, more than any other Premier League player in that period.
Elsewhere in the Premier League
At the top of the table, Arsenal extended their lead to nine points after Viktor Gyokeres came off the bench to score twice in a 3-0 win over Sunderland. Second-placed Manchester City face Liverpool on Sunday, while third-placed Aston Villa moved on after a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth. Chelsea also enjoyed a positive result, Cole Palmer scoring a first-half hat-trick in a 3-1 win against bottom club Wolves.