Michael Carrick’s Manchester United have won four straight Premier League games and a season that seemed to be coming to an end a few weeks ago now looks full of possibility and promise.
The 2-0 win over Tottenham at Old Trafford will extend Carrick’s 100 per cent start as head coach and further strengthen his case to be given the job long-term. At the very least, his impressive impact will definitely get him in the conversation.
Saturday’s victory also marks the first time in two years that United have won four Premier League games on the spin, with a top-four finish and a return to the lucrative Champions League looking more likely.
Carrick was particularly pleased with his team’s aim to encourage “expression and excitement” with goals from Brian Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes extending their unbeaten run to eight games overall and their longest run since 2022.
Manager Michael Carrick achieves fourth consecutive win
“Scoring first is usually essential to get ahead, but I think it’s just encouraging expression and attacking play,” Carrick said.
“It’s more about being able to do what you want and playing with purpose and confidence, rather than the fun of playing like flicks and tricks.
“The connection with everyone was amazing above all. The feeling, the emotion and the connection with the players, the staff, the fans, that’s very good. We had to win the game in different ways. I’m very happy to be able to see the stadium like this and look forward to the excitement.”
“We’re happy with the agreement. We’re in a good place mentally so that helps. The last four games have looked different but we haven’t broken it and we know that.”
Bruno Fernandes delighted after doubling Manchester United’s lead against Spurs
“We’re not satisfied with what we have, we’re moving towards the next goal. Not taking things for granted is something we talk about a lot and the players have done a really good job of that so far.”
Carrick has changed United’s fortunes since parachuting in to replace Ruben Amorim last month. He not only beat Spurs and Fulham, but also scored wins against division leaders Arsenal and Manchester City.
Captain Fernandez believes Carrick has added “something special.” He said: “Carrick came in with the right ideas and gave the players responsibility and freedom on the pitch.
“It was very good. I was sure he would be a great manager and he is showing that. I hope we can support him further.”
“Everyone understands the pressure of playing for this club and knows the expectations around them. He knows what it means for this club to win. It adds something special to the team.”
Bruno Fernandes contributed to Manchester United’s recent purple patch
Fernandes himself is a key figure in United’s resurgence. Asked if the midfielder was one of the most in-form players in the Premier League at the moment, Carrick said: “Listen, it’s going to take a long time to sum up (his contribution here).
“I think he’s offered a lot to the club since he’s been here. Today he played a lot of different roles for us and ended up on the left wing. The second goal came from the left wing when we changed things up a bit.”
“He is a team player and contributes very much to the group. He has his big moments, but we know his qualities. He cares very much about this football club and the team and it is obvious.”
Did Carrick solve it?
Brian Mbeumo celebrates after giving Manchester United the lead against Spurs
Sky Sports’ Laura Hunter at Old Trafford:
There was a lot of big talk in the Old Trafford press room on Saturday. The most popular question was: “Are Manchester United back?”
It’s not like it’s going to rain on our parade, but it may be a bit premature to declare United completely reformed. But they look imposing in Carrick’s mold, fluid in attack and organized in defence.
He remained true to his post-match demeanor, calm and restrained in his interactions with reporters, stressing that nothing had been accomplished yet. Obviously not. But for these patient United fans, the gift of four on the bounce will feel like winning the lottery. Considering what has happened so far, we are living in a hectic era.
Carrick’s United have already surpassed last season’s points total with more than a third of the season remaining. While the poor performance in the 18 months prior to his appointment cannot be overstated, it is equally important to highlight the impact since then. What I like most is the coordination in each attack phase. It’s very balanced.
Carrick has shown impressive maturity and composure during the game. His decisiveness has been praised. This looks like the start of something with great promise, and perhaps something long-lasting.
