There is a feeling sweeping through Old Trafford right now that we haven’t felt in a long time: genuine, organized belief. After Manchester United’s latest performance, the verdict from the stands is loud and clear: Michael Carrick looks like a man with a plan, and it might be time to make his residency in the dugout permanent.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Michael Carrick’s start at Manchester United has been nothing short of extraordinary. In just five games, he has secured wins over Manchester City, a Unai Emery-led Villarreal, and Arsenal twice, while earning a draw against Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Remarkably, Carrick has already claimed double the points against City and Arsenal alone than United managed to scrape together in their previous three outings against Wolves, Leeds, and Burnley combined. That’s not just an improvement—that’s a complete transformation.
More Than Just Results
For the first time in months, United looked like a team. We aren’t just talking about individual brilliance from the likes of Bryan Mbeumo or Bruno Fernandes; we’re talking about a cohesive unit. Carrick has shown proper sparks of how to effectively utilize this squad, finding the tactical balance that his predecessors struggled to grasp.
The players are tracking back. The press is synchronized. And most importantly, the “identity” crisis seems to be evaporating. These aren’t cosmetic changes—they’re fundamental shifts in how Manchester United operates on the pitch.
A Coach Who Understands the DNA
While the “at the wheel” phrase might give some fans PTSD, the sentiment is justified. Carrick isn’t just a placeholder; he’s a coach who understands the DNA of the club. He knows what it means to wear the United badge, having spent years in midfield orchestrating play with the same tactical intelligence he’s now displaying from the touchline.
If these positive signs continue, the board shouldn’t be looking elsewhere. Let the man lead.
Get the contract out, put it down, let him sign it, let him put whatever numbers he wants to put on there given what he’s done since he’s come in. Let him sign the contract.
Carrick’s at the wheel, he’s doing his thing. Man United are back.