Michael Carrick’s pivotal detail in his Manchester derby victory has been spotted by a Manchester United expert as the Red Devils see a tactical switch-up.
Manchester United fans are riding the high of their superb 2-0 victory against Manchester City at Old Trafford with Michael Carrick’s first game in charge since his arrival.
United dominated City throughout creating chance after chance, with the deadlock finally being broken in the second half as Bryan Mbeumo slotted his effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma in an electric United counter attack pioneered by captain Bruno Fernandes.
The lead was then doubled as Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu pounced onto a quick cross from substitute Matheus Cunha, securing all three points.
However, one Man United expert has revealed a crucial detail in Carrick’s tactical approach which outsmarted Pep Guardiola over the full 90 minutes.
Michael Carrick’s stroke of genius
Fans had been desperate to see a change in formation after Ruben Amorim’s persistent three-back lineup. Carrick certainly delivered, as he also pushed Fernandes into a higher position for the entirety of the game.
Whilst these adjustments seem simple, Man United expert Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider the true switch-up which gave United the upper hand.
“A lot has been spoken about this Man United squad, their attitudes, their consistency, and how Carrick appears already to have changed that.
“But I think the biggest change which has gone under the radar is the decision to use a back four. Yes, they changed the system under Darren Fletcher for those games, but Carrick has had time to implement his ideas and views on how it should be managed.
“There was a clear focus on defending properly, winning duels, and building from that solid foundation. Bryan Mbeumo’s goal epitomised that, it was Harry Maguire getting up with a powerful header to clear a City free kick, which set them on their way to go and score.
“That’s something that was massively lacking under Amorim; nobody wanted to take charge, and there was no focus on making sure they were solid at the back.
United must carry this momentum into the Emirates
Carrick’s next challenge takes place in London, where United will face arguably the strongest Arsenal side in over a decade, who comfortably lead the Premier League table.
Arsenal will be a side who aim to challenge United aerially with such threatening presences on set pieces.
Ensuring that United have the grit and determination to fight for duels off the ground will be imperative to United’s chances of coming away with three points.
Confidence seems to be high around the club after Saturday’s success, but United need to keep their focus on securing a spot in the Champions League as we approach game-week 23.
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