“The best feeling.” Those words keep returning around Old Trafford after another dramatic late winner. Since Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, many voices have spoken about reconnecting with Manchester United’s DNA. Some question whether such an identity even exists. Nights like this argue that it does. United scored deep into stoppage time, just as victory seemed impossible. Michael Carrick’s post-match reaction captured the wider mood inside the stadium.
Benjamin Sesko claimed the headlines with his decisive goal. When emotions settle after the 3-2 victory over Fulham, supporters may look backwards. Many will revisit Amorim’s failed 14 months in charge. They may ask whether the club simply lost a year under his leadership.
Amorim also oversaw victories with similar drama. The 5-4 Europa League epic against Lyon last April delivered even greater chaos. United scored twice in the final minute of extra time. Carrick experienced moments like this as a player too. He entered as a late substitute before Michael Owen’s famous derby winner in 2009. The feeling has never changed.
“It’s the best feeling,” Carrick said. He described moments of elation and excitement as unmatched experiences. He praised the Stretford End for adding emotional weight. Carrick said supporters leave with more than a win. He spoke about connection, emotion, and identity. He admitted United prefer easier victories. He insisted late drama remains special when it arrives.
Rebuilding after Ruben Amorim’s failed reign
A few facts sharpen the picture. United recorded a third consecutive league win. Carrick achieved that in his third match of this second spell. Amorim needed 36 games to do the same. He managed three consecutive wins only once. He rarely even achieved back-to-back victories during 14 months.
United responded to wins by Chelsea and Liverpool. They returned to fourth place in the table. Amorim never ended a match round so high. Including his 2021 caretaker spell, Carrick has won four of five league games. Only Sir Matt Busby and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer matched that feat previously. Amorim needed 12 league games to reach four wins. He then won once in the next 10 matches.
Amorim averaged 1.23 points per league game. That record stands as the worst since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. Tactical decisions also matter. United still show defensive weaknesses. The shift from three defenders to four has not worsened them. That change proved fundamental.
Mainoo’s return highlights tactical clarity
The new shape created space for Kobbie Mainoo’s return. Amorim never started him in a league match this season. He forced Mainoo into direct competition with Bruno Fernandes. Under Carrick, Mainoo thrived against Fulham. He defended with discipline and confidence. His passing and movement unlocked defensive lines. He offered control and intelligence throughout midfield.
Carrick praised Mainoo’s all-round performance. He highlighted heavy defensive work alongside Casemiro. He praised Mainoo’s calmness on the ball. Carrick said Mainoo understands game demands. He noted moments of quality came naturally. He reminded observers of Mainoo’s age. Carrick said confidence and belief made the display joyful.
Tottenham next as stakes rise again
United next host Tottenham. The fixture revisits last season’s Europa League final. Amorim failed to produce a winning plan that night. Tottenham struggled badly last season and remain inconsistent domestically. They arrive encouraged after drawing with Manchester City. That comeback eased pressure on Thomas Frank. He replaced Ange Postecoglou after defeating United in Bilbao.
That Europa League defeat damaged United financially and reputationally. The club could have dismissed Amorim then. Instead, decision-makers showed patience. After a 1-1 draw with Leeds last month, patience ended. United refused to risk missing Europe again.
Carrick transformed the outlook within three games. United now sit in a Champions League position. They built a five-point gap over seventh-placed Brentford. Sixth place would secure Europa League qualification. That target defined the season’s stated ambition.
Debate will continue over Carrick’s long-term future. Few now question Amorim’s dismissal. Many now question his appointment. One long-time critic summed it up brutally months ago. “Apart from his press conferences,” he asked, “what was he actually good at?”
