Almost two weeks without a match is rare for Manchester United, a club accustomed to a packed schedule across multiple competitions. But right now, they have lost the League Cup, been eliminated from the FA Cup, and are also absent from European competition. For the first time in many years, Old Trafford is experiencing an unusual lull in the middle of the season.
The sparse fixture list exposes the reality that this season could end without a trophy. Yet the atmosphere at Old Trafford is far from gloomy.
The reason lies with Carrick.
Since returning as interim manager at MU, Carrick has brought about a noticeable change. MU are unbeaten in their last five matches, including four wins. They defeated Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Fulham. The winning streak ended with a 1-1 draw against West Ham, but their fourth-place position remains secure.
After 26 rounds, Manchester United are just one point ahead of Chelsea. That narrow gap makes every upcoming match crucial.
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Carrick had a dream start at MU. Photo: Reuters. |
Carrick not only improved the results, but he also helped the team play more cohesively and react better under pressure. Some of his personnel decisions also showed that he wanted to establish his own authority, rather than just being in the shadow of his predecessor.
But inspiration alone isn't enough to keep him at Manchester United. The four big games ahead will tell.
First up is the away game at St James' Park on March 4th. Eddie Howe's Newcastle are aiming to break into the top group. That stadium is no easy place to play.
If Carrick fails to control the tempo and flow of the game, the match could follow the same pattern as against West Ham: stagnant, heavy, and lacking ideas. A win here would be a statement that the resurgence isn't solely due to the change in manager.
Next up is a home game against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on March 15th. Unai Emery's team is currently third, five points ahead of MU. This is MU's only home Premier League match in March.
Familiar surroundings can be an advantage, but it also means greater pressure. Villa are well-organized, disciplined, and sharp in transitions. If Carrick wants to prove he's capable of competing against top managers, this is his clearest opportunity.
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If he wants to secure a regular starting position, Carrick still has many challenges ahead. Photo: Reuters. |
April presents a potentially dangerous trip to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are experiencing a resurgence and are direct contenders in the race for the top four. The nature of this clash could resemble a "final."
A win would give MU a favorable points advantage. A loss could wipe out all that advantage. In such matches, a coach's character is most clearly demonstrated in their mid-game adjustments and their ability to read the game.
And the other big match is Liverpool on May 2nd. The English derby always has its own significance. But with the Champions League race still up in the air, it has double the meaning.
Liverpool are having a less-than-ideal title defense season, but they remain a formidable opponent. If Carrick can conclude his crucial run of matches with a victory against Liverpool, it would be the perfect moment to wrap up his interim period.
Four challenging turns test your abilities.
Carrick knows Old Trafford better than anyone. He was a player during the golden era. He knows how high the standards are here.
A fairy tale is only complete when it has a fitting ending. If MU maintains its position in the top four and defeats its direct rivals, the management will have to seriously reconsider their position.
Interim management may be a temporary role. But in football, power belongs to the one who delivers results. Carrick has earned trust; now he needs to translate that trust into results.
Old Trafford has seen many managers step through this door with the title of "interim". But very few have turned it into the starting point for a long-term tenure.
Carrick has the opportunity to do that. The rest depends on the four crucial races for the race and on himself.
Source: https://znews.vn/bon-khuc-cua-dinh-menh-cua-carrick-post1628893.html
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