Carrick readies for derby as injuries bite at Old Trafford
Pep Guardiola, nearing a decade at City, says ‘results’ explain his longevity as he meets a sixth United boss, Michael Carrick, in the Old Trafford derby.
Man United beat Man City 2-0 as Mbeumo and Dorgu score. Amad and Bruno Fernandes have goals ruled out. Dalot escapes red after high challenge on Doku. Carrick’s first game brings derby delight.
United and City face injury issues ahead of the Old Trafford derby, with up to nine players potentially out as Michael Carrick begins his interim stint.
Carrick’s Middlesbrough spell mixed ‘unplayable’ football and strong faith in youth with problems later on, shaping expectations for his Man United tenure.
Ex-United defender Clayton Blackmore urges more minutes for 18-year-old Shea Lacey despite his FA Cup red card, with Carrick short on January reinforcements.
Oliver Glasner’s Palace exit boosts Man Utd’s pursuit, while Gareth Southgate is linked but may reject. Carrick leads vs Man City as interim.
Michael Carrick, appointed head coach until season’s end, will debut vs Man City and says he is planning beyond this season, not ruling out staying permanently.
Roy Keane questions Michael Carrick’s credentials and backroom hires, calling United a ‘circus’, but says results could still bring Champions League qualification.
Marcos Rojo recalls Zlatan Ibrahimovic shouting at Man Utd team-mates, a heated dressing-room row, then making peace the next day during their 2016-18 spell.
Rio Ferdinand claims Victor Osimhen ‘will come to United’ if offered. United also eye 17-year-old Sheffield Wednesday left-back Yisa Alao amid rival bids.
Sofascore combined XI for the derby includes Man United’s Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Amad and Lisandro Martinez, alongside City stars like Donnarumma, Haaland and Foden.
Michael Carrick reportedly vetoes Harry Maguire’s January exit amid AC Milan interest, viewing the defender as key cover in a thin unit. Maguire’s deal runs to 2026 with no extension yet.
