Three games down, 14 to go for Michael Carrick, Steve Holland and this new-look Manchester United coaching department.
For some, Ruben Amorim’s departure signalled yet another disappointing decision from a hierarchy that would be better served by applying their trade elsewhere.
For others, the move was a necessary measure to allow this once-imperious football club to regain familiarity by discarding the shackles of a restrictive philosophy.
Regardless of what side of the fence you fought, it’s difficult to deny the benefits of yet another mid-season settlement, with Carrick overseeing a trio of impressive performances and wins.
Whether through the ease with which Old Trafford consumed a one-sided Manchester derby or the character displayed during performances against Arsenal and Fulham, something notable is occurring in the North West.
But what of the permanent appointment and the potential ramifications of change?
Ineos crave a best-in-class sporting team to spearhead an ambitious assault towards Project 150, with a host of continental names available in the summer.
However, with yesterday’s thrilling win against Fulham confirming a top-four standing, the prospect of Champions League football is more real than it has been in many months, and Carrick is the leading figure behind this rise.
At what point has Michael Carrick solidified his Manchester United credentials?
Before proceeding, please note that we are not getting ahead of ourselves at the Theatre of Red.
But for a brace of late strikes from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, this conversation would likely not occur. Remember, we have witnessed many false dawns from this group before.
Still, facing the mammoth task of consecutive outings against the league’s top two sides off the back of four fixtures without a win, few gave United any hope of as much as a draw.
As previously documented, Holland deserves significant recognition for his part in this footballing metamorphosis. This must be recognised far and wide.
But only one man can receive the honour of leading the 20-time English champions, and the case for Carrick is building.
The dominance displayed against Manchester City could be attributed to a ‘new manager bounce’. Nonetheless, the character at the Emirates and again yesterday is an entirely different proposition.
As is common practice, naysayers will move heaven and earth to find fault in any positives at Old Trafford.
Regardless, form can not be discounted. United sit atop the table through the previous five fixtures as the only unbeaten side in the Premier League, and lead the way in goal difference (+4).
Lisandro Martinez has shone since his return from injury, and is one of several players to supply a public endorsement of the newfound relationships at Carrington.
“You need people who understand your quality – you need people who take your best, as well,” the Argentine stated during an interview with Stan Sport.
“And I think Michael is doing that, he is taking the best from everybody. Not just the players, but also the staff, the standards, and the structure that he demands – I think that is really important.
“For me, when you touch my heart, I will give everything for you, and he touched it already. You can see that on the pitch, we give everything.”
| Statistics via sofascore.com | United 2:0 Manchester City (H) | United 3:2 Arsenal (A) | United 3:2 Fulham (H) |
| Possession | 32% | 44% | 42% |
| Goals | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Total shots | 11 | 10 | 13 |
| Big chances created | 6 | 2 | 3 |
| Expected goals (xG) | 2.27 | 0.71 | 1.79 |
| Big chances conceded | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Expected goals against (xGA) | 0.45 | 1.19 | 1.94 |
We receive numerous weekly correspondences at the Theatre of Red, and a recurring theme relates to how likely we are to see this brand of football continue.
In just three fixtures, the Reds have fashioned 11 big chances and converted eight, while giving up just three in the process.
That return has not occurred by chance; it is the byproduct of calculated preparations, tailored to the strengths of these players.
Crucially, it is built on the principles of retaining fundamentals to unlock individual inspiration.
Much will rely on retaining a fit first-team squad, but winning breeds confidence, and that can only supply further positives.
When considering the wealth of continental tacticians who would relish the prospect of leading this famous football club, every supporter could present an argument for their favoured name.
Nonetheless, if Carrick can deliver Champions League football while utilising this brand of attacking play, the bond between supporters and players will grow.
Should that occur, it would take a very brave board member to implement a change in the managerial department, and I fail to see the logic in doing so.
For those concerned about ‘recreating past mistakes’, don’t be. It is a fool’s errand to find fault in the unknown.
For now, enjoy this run of form and momentum that has got supporters believing in this team. For Michael, what will be will be.
Let us know your thoughts about Manchester United in the comments or across our social channels.
Photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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