Man United Reborn Under Michael Carrick: Is the New System the Key?
Manchester United have shown clear signs of revival since Michael Carrick took charge. The improvement is not accidental. A return to a familiar tactical setup has brought balance, clarity, and — most importantly — confidence back to the team.
Back to 4-2-3-1 — and Back to Their Best
The switch back to a 4-2-3-1 system has delivered an immediate boost. Bruno Fernandes is once again operating in his preferred No.10 role, and the impact has been obvious. In Carrick’s first four matches, the Portuguese playmaker recorded 1 goal, 4 assists, and 18 key passes, re-establishing himself as the creative heartbeat of the side.
Progress is also evident on the wings. Bryan Mbeumo has already scored three goals, Matheus Cunha contributed 2 goals and 1 assist, and even Patrick Dorgu managed to get on the scoresheet twice before picking up an injury.
A Fluid Attack With Tactical Flexibility
Carrick’s attacking setup has been one of the most intriguing aspects of his early tenure. Under Ruben Amorim, United had focused on recruiting versatile inside forwards capable of playing both wide and centrally — and Carrick is now exploiting that flexibility.
In recent matches, Mbeumo has often been deployed as a false nine, while the flanks were occupied by Amad Diallo and Cunha — although positional rotations frequently occurred during games. Benjamin Šeško has mostly been used as an impact option off the bench, giving United a different profile in attack.
Dorgu also impressed when used higher up the pitch — a role he had previously experienced at Lecce — but his injury temporarily halted that experiment.
Defensive Stability Through Forgotten Names
Dorgu’s injury has unexpectedly turned Luke Shaw into an indispensable figure. The English left-back has quietly become one of United’s most important players, currently leading the squad in Premier League minutes.
Defensively, Shaw has been well supported by a revitalised Harry Maguire, who looks far more assured than the younger Leny Yoro, and a fully fit Lisandro Martínez. Martínez has been particularly impressive, ranking among the team’s best players for progressive passing and ball progression from the back.
By reintroducing and trusting players many had written off, Carrick has not only stabilised United’s defence but also restored internal competition and belief.
Early Signs of a Clear Direction
It is still early days, but the tactical coherence and improved individual performances suggest Manchester United are finally moving in a defined direction. The return to a familiar structure, smarter use of versatile attackers, and renewed trust in experienced defenders have all played a role.
Under Carrick, United look organised, flexible, and — for the first time in a while — genuinely comfortable in their own identity.
Published by Patrick Jane
10.02.2026