Michael Carrick had a fantastic debut as Manchester United’s head coach, leading the team to a significant 2-0 derby victory over title contenders Manchester City, thanks to goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu.
In their 198th competitive clash, the team that entered the day sitting seventh in the Premier League faced off against the second-placed side, with Carrick making his managerial debut following his return as a former midfielder, captain, and coach.
This week, Carrick was appointed head coach for the remainder of the season and immediately made an impact, with second-half goals from Mbeumo and Dorgu delivering a well-deserved win for United at a revitalized Old Trafford.
The hosts showcased an impressive performance, putting behind them a challenging fortnight due to Ruben Amorim’s contentious departure, securing their first victory since Boxing Day.
Pep Guardiola’s squad rarely posed a threat to Carrick’s team, which could have won by a larger margin if not for some outstanding saves by Gianluigi Donnarumma, the woodwork, and three goals being disallowed for offside.
City’s underwhelming title challenge may lead them to feel aggrieved that Diogo Dalot wasn’t sent off for an early tackle on Jérémy Doku, but the red side of Manchester is likely unconcerned by that.
Carrick’s joy was evident following Saturday’s win, which came after his unbeaten three-game spell as caretaker following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal in November 2021.
