Carrick’s Fresh Start: United Edge City in a Derby Debut at Old Trafford
17 January 2026
Carrick’s United Edge City in Old Trafford Derby
Manchester United opened Carrick's era with a high-energy 2-0 win over city rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford, in the Premier League's 22nd round.
It was Michael Carrick's first match in command, succeeding Ruben Amorim as United's manager.
United's goals came from Bryan Mbwimo on 65 minutes and Patrick Durgo on 76 minutes.
According to WhoScored, Carrick becomes the third United boss to defeat City at Old Trafford in the Premier League under Guardiola.
Previous winners include Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (2021), Erik ten Hag (2023), and Ruben Amorim (2024), with Carrick joining them in 2026.
With the victory, United moved to 35 points and temporarily sat fourth, while City remained on 43 points in second.
The win adds to United's improving run against City, with four of the last five league wins coming under different managers.
Punchline 1: Carrick's playbook is so crisp City defenders might request a magnifying glass just to spot the hole in the defense.
Punchline 2: If United keep this up, Guardiola might start a new hobby—collecting consolation bouquets from the away end.
