Michael Carrick made a risky decision for Manchester United’s clash with Manchester City on the weekend which could be bad news for one player.
Manchester United put in a commanding display to defeat Manchester City 2–0 at Old Trafford in their Premier League encounter.
From the first whistle to the last, United were firmly in control, with Michael Carrick’s team showing defensive resilience and posing a constant threat going forward.
Although the Reds found the net five times during the match, three goals were ruled out for marginal offside decisions. Nonetheless, strikes from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu proved enough to earn a vital and thoroughly deserved victory.
Lisandro Martínez was one of United’s standout performers, delivering a strong defensive showing and keeping Erling Haaland quiet until the striker was withdrawn in the 80th minute.
Carrick’s risky decision v City could be bad news for ‘outstanding’ United star
United’s attacking intent against City was brilliant to see, but it was even better to witness a strong defensive display from the Reds.
It was only United’s third clean sheet of the season and it came after Carrick decided to rush Harry Maguire back into the starting lineup.
The English defender produced a great display at the back alongside Martínez. It was the first time they started a game together since September 2024.
“It was a big ask for H,” Carrick replied when asked about Maguire returning to the side. “I have to say, credit to him. People take it for granted sometimes what players do.
“For him to play today and come through it. It was a bit of a calculated gamble because he only trained for two or three days.
“It just shows you what it means for him. He was fantastic. Him and Licha were so solid at the back.”
This is a good problem for United
United opted for an experienced backline and it paid off against City. It will be interesting to see how Carrick approaches upcoming games.
Ayden Heaven has been a standout performer in recent months and Roy Keane described his displays as ‘outstanding’. The defender came off the bench against City in the final minutes.
But he may find it more difficult to get minutes in Carrick’s back four after the performances of Maguire and Martínez on Saturday.
United will want to build on that clean sheet but, on the other hand, Carrick will need to recognise which players suit each game.
Maguire was perfect for the clash with City as United defended as a compact block, but in games where they are expected to dominate the ball further up the pitch, you could argue that Heaven’s athleticism could be important.
It is certainly a good problem for United to have and Heaven does not need to be a guaranteed starter at this stage. He will hopefully be able to learn and develop the defensive side of his game while working under the new coaching team.
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