Michael Carrick extended his perfect start as Manchester United manager with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford.
The win marks three consecutive successes for the former midfielder, propelling the Red Devils into the Premier League’s top four.
Despite a slow start where Fulham appeared the more dangerous side, United’s veteran leadership and clinical finishing ultimately secured the points in a chaotic second half.
Casemiro broke the deadlock in the first half, heading home a pinpoint Bruno Fernandes free-kick. After the break, Matheus Cunha doubled the lead, but Fulham fought back valiantly through a Raul Jimenez penalty and a long-range rocket from Kevin.
With the game heading toward a draw, substitute Benjamin Sesko swiveled to score a 91st-minute winner following a relentless counter-attack led by Fernandes.
Player Ratings
Senne Lammens (7/10):
The Belgian keeper continues to justify his selection over previous options. He produced several vital saves in both halves that prevented Fulham from taking full control of the momentum.
Diogo Dalot (6/10):
A dependable performance from the fullback, who focused on defensive solidity. He avoided the unforced errors that had plagued his recent performances, providing a stable presence on the flank.
Harry Maguire (7/10):
Maguire was a “Steady Eddie” in the heart of the defense. Despite conceding a penalty, his physical presence and rapport with Martinez helped United weather heavy periods of Fulham pressure.
Lisandro Martinez (7/10):
Since returning from injury, the Argentine has restored a sense of calm to the backline. His elite reading of the game allowed United to effectively navigate a traditional four-man defensive system.
Luke Shaw (7/10):
Defying his history of injury woes, Shaw appeared as “Mr. Reliable,” continuing his streak of starting every league game this term. He was disciplined and provided a consistent outlet on the left.
Casemiro (8/10):
The veteran midfielder looked back to his world-class best under Carrick’s guidance. Dominating the center of the pitch, he netted the opener and assisted the second in a masterful performance.
Kobbie Mainoo (7/10):
Mainoo’s technical quality was on full display. His performance raised questions about his lack of starts earlier in the season, as he dictated the tempo with maturity beyond his years.
Amad (6/10):
The young winger showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to consistently break down a stubborn Fulham defense. He remained industrious but lacked a final clinical edge on the day.
Bruno Fernandes (7/10):
Despite a quiet afternoon by his standards, the captain’s “never-say-die” attitude proved decisive. His lung-busting run in stoppage time provided the perfect assist for Sesko’s winning goal.
Matheus Cunha (7/10):
Continuing his fine form, Cunha displayed his predatory instincts with a rifled finish from a tight angle. His mobility and clinical edge have become essential to United’s attacking identity.
Bryan Mbeumo (6/10):
While quieter than in previous outings, Mbeumo’s work rate was exemplary. He struggled to find space in the final third but remained a key tactical component of Carrick’s pressing system.
Substitute
Benjamin Sesko (7/10)
Came off the bench to provide attacking threat in the closing stages, and ended up as the hero after scoring a brilliant winner moments after the visits levelled at 2-2.