Revitalising criticised stars, and changing the game from the bench, Carrick has brought the United DNA back

Manchester United produced yet another magical performance, this time away from home, as they overcame Arsenal 3-2 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. This was United’s first league win at the venue since 2017, and the first time the Gunners have conceded three goals in 121 games. What a week it has been for caretaker boss Michael Carrick! Whatever the legendary midfielder seems to touch turns to gold. He has revitalised Patrick Dorgu, criticised by former head coach Ruben Amorim for his anxiousness on the ball, but the Dane looks a completely different player. Revitalising criticised players The 21-year-old looked far from anxious, showing incredible confidence to score United’s second of the night from a volley from outside the box. Kobbie Mainoo, who did not earn a single Premier League start all season under the Portuguese, produced another midfield masterclass. Throwing players under the bus was something Amorim kept repeating, but Carrick’s understanding approach has already started paying dividends, even for players who have not played as much. Far too often, Amorim would make negative substitutions in the hopes of holding on to a lead or try to play for a draw. Late winner Not Carrick. he was bold yet again, and substitute Matheus Cunha popped up to score a brilliant winner late in the game. Fans have hardly celebrated late winners this season, but the United DNA might be back under Sir Alex Ferguson’s protege! When the hosts equalised in the 84th minute, plenty would have expected the head coach to try and ensure the team returned to Manchester with at least a point. Instead, the former England international urged his players on, who put in an incredible amount of effort to ensure all three points. Staying compact, and hardly allowing the home side space to play through them, Carrick had his gameplan spot on. Next challenge And once their initial energy started wearing off, the visitors slowly grew into the game and Bryan Mbeumo got his team the equaliser. Under Carrick, the 20-time English league champions have shown they can mingle with the best. Now for them to try and break down a stubborn defence when Fulham come to the Theatre of Dreams next Sunday. Feature image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25