Michael Carrick’s tenure as Manchester United manager began in spectacular fashion on Saturday as United dismantled rivals Manchester City 2-0 in the 198th Manchester derby. The victory has instantly transformed the atmosphere at Old Trafford following the mid-week dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
In a performance defined by high energy and tactical discipline, United dominated the defending champions. Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring in the 65th minute with a clinical low finish, and Patrick Dorgu doubled the lead in the 76th minute, tapping in a cross from substitute Matheus Cunha.
The scoreline could have been even heavier; United struck the woodwork twice and saw three goals—including a late Mason Mount strike—ruled out for offside. Even Pep Guardiola conceded defeat, stating, "The better team won. They had an energy we didn’t have."
Carrick, currently contracted until the end of the season, now has 17 games to prove he deserves the permanent role. United now sits in fifth place, just one point behind Liverpool.
While United celebrated, Liverpool’s crisis deepened. The defending champions are still without a league win in 2026 after a frustrating 1-1 draw with relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield. Despite a goal from Florian Wirtz, Liverpool allowed Marcus Edwards to equalize, extending their winless streak to four matches.
Around the League: Chelsea: Under new manager Liam Rosenior, Chelsea climbed to sixth after a 2-0 win over Brentford, thanks to goals from Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer. West Ham: Secured a vital 2-1 win over Tottenham with a 93rd-minute winner from Callum Wilson, ending a 10-game winless run. Leeds United: Lukas Nmecha’s stoppage-time goal secured a 1-0 win over Fulham, continuing the promoted side's remarkable form. Sunderland: Dealt a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, a day after Palace boss Oliver Glasner announced his end-of-season departure.
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