Michael Carrick began his interim managerial tenure at Manchester United with a resounding 2–0 victory over rivals Manchester City in the Premier League derby on Saturday.
Goals from Bryan Mbeumo in the 65th minute and Patrick Dorgu in the 76th minute secured the win at Old Trafford, delivering a major boost to United after a difficult run of form.
The match remained goalless at halftime before United’s second-half breakthrough. City, despite significant possession, were frustrated by a disciplined United defence and failed to score.
Carrick’s bold team selection saw the return of AFCON participants Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, while Harry Maguire made his first start in two months. Maguire nearly scored early, hitting the crossbar from a Bruno Fernandes corner.
City, hampered by defensive injuries, fielded an inexperienced centre-back pairing and relied heavily on goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made several crucial saves. United had three goals ruled out for offside before finally breaking the deadlock.
The opening goal came after a poor City free-kick led to a swift counterattack, with Fernandes assisting Mbeumo for a low finish. The second saw Dorgu capitalize on defensive lapses to score at the back post.
The victory lifts Manchester United into the Premier League top four and deals a significant blow to City’s title aspirations, potentially benefiting leaders Arsenal.
