Michael Carrick hugs Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha after his team’s victory (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) Manchester United’s latest reset could hardly have started more dramatically. In his first game as head coach, Michael Carrick guided United to a stunning 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester City, lifting spirits at Old Trafford and reigniting confidence among fans. Goals from Bryan Mbeum and Patrick Dorg sealed the 198th Manchester derby and produced a performance against Pep Guardiola. “It’s a great start, there’s no getting away from it,” Carrick said after the game. However, the new manager was quick to point out that one result does not define progress. “That’s ultimately the challenge and I think it has to be a version of normal,” added Carrick, who was appointed earlier this week. Carrick’s appointment comes with short-term pressure. He has only signed until the end of the season, giving him 17 games to convince the United hierarchy to make the role permanent. His arrival follows the sacking of Ruben Amorim, the sixth permanent manager or head coach to leave the club since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. The former United midfielder could not have made a stronger first impression. His side outplayed City for long spells, forcing Guardiola to acknowledge the gap of the day. “The better team won. There is nothing to add,” said Guardiola. “When a team is better, you have to accept it. They had an energy that we didn’t have. Congratulations.” United’s dominance was reflected in the atmosphere at Old Trafford, with the home fans drowning out their opponents throughout the contest. “The fans have been incredible and I said yesterday it could be a magical place,” Carrick said. “Getting that feeling is exactly what we want. Hopefully it’s just the beginning and something to build on.” The score could have been harder. United hit the woodwork twice, forcing several saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma and having three goals ruled out for offside. Mbeumo opened the scoring in the 65th minute after a quick counter-attack led by Bruno Fernandes before Dorgu doubled the lead in the 76th minute. The win boosted United’s Champions League hopes and extended City’s winless streak to four games. Sir Alex Ferguson, watching from the stands, was all smiles, matching the mood at Old Trafford.
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