Michael Carrick may be keeping his long-term intentions under wraps, but his early impact as Manchester United’s interim manager is impossible to ignore.
Family Moments and Early Success
Carrick’s first two matches in charge have both ended in victory, including a 3-2 win at Arsenal—the club’s first there in eight years. Among the celebrating fans were Carrick’s own children, who watched in the away section as Matheus Cunha scored the winning goal. For Carrick, these moments combine professional success with personal joy, though he remains focused on the job at hand rather than speculation about his future.
United has collected six points under Carrick, a remarkable start compared to his predecessor Ruben Amorim’s struggle to find consistency. Victories over the teams currently sitting first and second in the table highlight the immediate turnaround in results, even as Carrick stresses the need for humility. “We can’t look too far ahead. We won’t anyway, but looking too far ahead can bite you,” he said after the Arsenal win.
Tactical Adjustments and Bold Decisions
Carrick has already addressed several issues left over from Amorim’s tenure. Returning to a four-at-the-back system, recalling young talent Kobbie Mainoo, and repositioning Bruno Fernandes further forward have strengthened United’s approach. His bold selection choices have paid off too: Patrick Dorgu, starting ahead of Cunha on the left side, has scored twice in two games, while Cunha provided the assist and scored the decisive goal at Arsenal.
Carrick praised Cunha’s professionalism, saying, “He has not started both games and he’s been disappointed not to start. But he’s used it in a really good way. He’s had a real big impact and two huge moments.” Cunha described the squad as having a “different energy” under Carrick, noting the manager’s deep understanding of the club and its culture.
Staying Grounded Amid Success
Despite the early momentum, Carrick remains measured about his position. When asked about wanting the permanent role, he responded: “I am here to do a job… We are not getting carried away. It is two huge results, but we will keep our feet on the ground. I am enjoying it and I will continue to do what I can.”
Former teammates and pundits have noted the change in atmosphere at Old Trafford. Micah Richards commented on Sky Sports: “The overall spirit looks different. The big question was: Could they back up the win over Manchester City? They backed it up all right.” Even Wayne Rooney, who witnessed Carrick’s first days in charge, highlighted the dramatic shift: “Two wins out of two against Manchester City and Arsenal… You’ve seen a complete change in everything since he’s been in.”
Carrick’s immediate focus is results and team cohesion, but the early signs suggest he has reignited optimism at Manchester United.
