It’s been a season of frustration rather than trauma for Manchester United and its proud supporters.
The Old Trafford faithful have seen multiple opportunities to kick on and move up the table come and go on far too many occasions, leading to periods of disbelief.
This feeling was enhanced by early exits from both domestic cup competitions, without really ever experiencing the complete capitulations of previous reigns.
With progress under Ruben Amorim proving slower than some had expected, and a clash of opinions with the hierarchy proving an obstacle, the Portuguese was dismissed in early January.
Darren Fletcher stepped in to take caretaker charge against Burnley and Brighton as United weighed up their options before opting for Michael Carrick as interim head coach for the remainder of the campaign.
The former midfielder has enjoyed a thrilling start to life in the hotseat, masterminding a comprehensive beating of Manchester City, before a full-blooded comeback win in North London over old rivals Arsenal last Sunday evening.
The sudden upturn in form has been swift and decisive, but it is, perhaps, not all that surprising.
Back to Basics for Michael Carrick’s Manchester United
United weren’t awful this season under Amorim, per se. However, they let a lot of games slip through their fingers, having been in positions to gather three points.
The Red Devils often let themselves down in both boxes against the likes of Tottenham, West Ham, Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Wolves.
Truthfully, this inconsistency was exasperating, best illustrated by the stat that showed Amorim had won back-to-back games in just one short spell.
In contrast, Carrick has already won consecutive fixtures, with his team playing some scintillating football in both matches.
So far, it has been the perfect start, and from the outside looking in, it would appear he has taken this United side back to basics.
Players have returned to a more familiar four-at-the-back setup and begun playing to their strengths rather than overthinking matters.
Instead of feeling like the game is an exact science, this iteration of United seems as though they are prioritising self-expression and not following an elaborate instruction manual, so to speak.
Carrick’s United have been direct, front-footed and have so far been the perfect answer to anyone questioning what exactly Manchester United DNA is, averaging more fast breaks than anyone else in the league.
With Bryan Mbeumo leading the line, the 20-time English champions have a clinical, versatile forward who has made the most runs in behind per 90 in the Premier League this season.
Bruno Fernandes has been reinstated to his favoured No.10 role as he remains one of the most potent chance creators in the country, with Kobbie Mainoo flourishing following his return.
Patrick Dorgu was kept in a high and wide position because of his growing influence, but has now unfortunately succumbed to a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for up to 10 weeks.
Unquestionably, Michael deserves his flowers, but Steve Holland has also played a crucial role in United’s turnaround.
The former England and Chelsea man provides vital tactical nous at Carrington alongside Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion and Jonny Evans.
Of course, the acid test for Carrick and his team is still to come as they face a very different examination of their credentials against Fulham on Sunday afternoon.
Marco Silva’s side will set up very differently from the likes of Pep Guardiola’s City or Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, with the Cottagers expected to line up in a low block; the onus will be on the hosts to take the initiative.
This was a regular failing of past United sides during the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, and must improve if they harbour any plans of challenging for the title in the future.
Of course, no one is getting carried away just yet after only two games, and due diligence is surely being carried out behind the scenes.
Nonetheless, Carrick will do his chances of landing the gig full-time no harm at all if he can keep up the sort of form and consistency we have seen so far.
It’s sure to be an intriguing couple of months ahead.
What are your expectations for the rest of the season under the stewardship of Michael Carrick?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels – photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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