At Manchester United, the managerial position has never been a place for patience. The post-Sir Alex Ferguson era has seen many managers come and go under immense pressure, and interim stints are often just short transitional periods.
Therefore, Michael Carrick's start with three consecutive wins against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham means more than just the numbers.
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Carrick and Manchester United convincingly defeated Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. Photo: Reuters. |
Every beginning is difficult.
Carrick was no stranger to Carrington. Before returning to charge, he had quietly been present there for many years, driving his son to training sessions with the youth teams. That connection helped Carrick understand the club's structure, the dressing room culture, and even the simmering cracks after a long period of instability. When he was given the reins after the FA Cup defeat, he took over a team weary of conflict, but not yet having lost its ambition.
The first difference lies in how Carrick interprets the context. While public opinion views the FA Cup as a "lifeline," the club's internals still believe European goals are achievable. Manchester United were not far behind in the race for the top six, trailing Liverpool in fourth place by only three points.
And then Carrick chose to rebuild confidence instead of tearing down and rebuilding. He didn't promise anything grand, only emphasized the meaning of wearing the Manchester United shirt and the responsibility that came with it.
Effectiveness comes from the smallest things.
On the training ground, Carrick implemented a simple philosophy: concise, high-intensity, and clear. Training sessions were shortened, but the demands for quality increased. Those needing treatment for injuries had to arrive early, and those wishing to train extra were accommodated.
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Carrick earned the trust of the players. Photo: Reuters. |
This approach contrasts with the previous period, when the workload was prolonged but lacked focus. For example, Wayne Rooney revealed that the training session before the Arsenal match ended earlier than expected because everyone was doing so well and Carrick wanted to maintain his sharpness, "packaging" his best form to bring to the pitch.
The impact was evident in the key players. Casemiro, understanding that his future was already decided, rediscovered his motivation to close the final chapter at Old Trafford in a dignified manner.
Other experienced players like Harry Maguire also appreciate Carrick's straightforward communication: no beating around the bush, no ambiguity about roles. He explains his reasons for selecting or dropping players, and more importantly, makes players believe that the decision serves the common good.
Another notable change is the connection with the academy. Unlike many coaches before him, Carrick spends time watching the U21 and U18 teams play and train. That presence is not just symbolic.
It sends a message that the path to the first team is still open, and efforts at the youth level are taken seriously. In the context of Manchester United often being criticized for the disconnect between the academy and the first team, this is a positive sign.
Carrick wasn't alone either. The coaching staff was bolstered by suitable additions, particularly experienced coaches with strong communication skills.
The division of responsibilities was clear: Carrick focused on midfield, while his assistants were tasked with individualizing players and ensuring the team ran smoothly. In the dressing room, egos still existed, but they were managed through dialogue rather than commands.
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The signs are positive, but Carrick says, "This is just the beginning." Photo: Reuters. |
Compared to his previous interim stints, Carrick is reminiscent of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in terms of his closeness to and understanding of the club. However, Carrick is more cautious in his statements and restrains his emotions in front of the media.
He didn't seek support through strong statements, but let the team speak for itself on the pitch. A necessary silence as MU is gradually rediscovering itself.
Of course, this is still the "honeymoon period". The win against Fulham, where Manchester United squandered their advantage and only sealed the victory in injury time, serves as a reminder that the team still has a lot of work to do.
The return of key players after injuries and international duties gives Carrick more options, but also poses a challenge in personnel management as the match schedule increases and the season draws to a close.
Most importantly, Carrick understands the fragility of emotions at Old Trafford. The message "this is just the beginning" is repeated not to diminish achievements, but to keep feet on the ground.
The ultimate goal is clear: a place in European competition. If achieved, Carrick will be credited with having accomplished his mission. If not, he can still leave with a positive legacy: a more cohesive, disciplined team that knows where it's going.
In a club accustomed to noise and commotion, Carrick chose to work quietly. And sometimes, that very quietness carries profound meaning, enough to deliver a brilliant boost for MU after this season.
Source: https://znews.vn/mu-doi-chieu-duoi-tay-carrick-post1625872.html
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