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.
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