7M - Carrick Commends Squad Following Triumph Over Arsenal

At the heart of Manchester United's impressive run of victories lay a modest statement from caretaker boss Michael Carrick, aged 45. He directed the acclaim toward the team rather than claiming it for himself.

Manchester United clinched a 3-2 win against Arsenal in their away fixture during the 23rd matchday of the 2025-2026 Premier League season, played at London's Emirates Stadium on the 26th (Korean time).

Under Carrick's temporary leadership, they notched consecutive league successes by overcoming Manchester City and then Arsenal in succession.

The contest proved challenging. Arsenal grabbed the advantage in the first half's 29th minute. A delivery from Bukayo Saka was turned into a strike by Martin Ødegaard, with the ball ricocheting off Lisandro Martínez’s boot and finding the goal. The tide turned swiftly. In the 37th minute, Brian Mbueomo applied pressure on the rivals' attacking zone, stole possession, and coolly leveled the score.

Manchester United elevated their performance after the interval. Six minutes in, Dorgba netted a left-footed effort from distance after exchanging passes with Bruno Fernandes, putting them ahead. Arsenal fought back. In the 34th minute, Mikel Merino nodded home a leveler during a corner opportunity, restoring parity.

The winner emerged from Manchester United's side. In the 42nd minute, Matheus Cunha unleashed a curling effort close to the box that shook the goal. No additional scoring occurred, sealing the result for Manchester United.

Post-match, caretaker coach Carrick first lauded the squad. As reported by the UK's Manchester Evening News, Carrick remarked, “This was a contest demanding total commitment. The outcome is the players' achievement. I'm extremely proud,” and added, “We endured the rivals' initial push and adapted to the match amid that.”

He went on, “Goals conceded brought tough spells, yet we countered them. A similar pattern emerged toward the end, but we recovered once more. Numerous positive moments stood out. Be it ten days post my role or just the second outing, we're in a new phase. Perfection isn't feasible right now.”

He assessed the opposition too. Carrick noted, “This holds especially for a squad like Arsenal. Nevertheless, positive features were evident. I intend to develop those in the upcoming days and weeks. The squad showed firm resolve to prevail, and this evening was genuinely remarkable.”