Manchester United secured a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, with Bruno Fernandes praising interim manager Michael Carrick's impact on the team. This win marks Carrick's fourth consecutive victory since taking charge, making him only the third manager in United's history to achieve this feat.
The match saw Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes score the goals that sealed the win for Manchester United. Tottenham's Cristian Romero received a red card in the first half for a challenge on Casemiro, giving United a significant advantage. Mbeumo's goal came shortly after Romero's dismissal, and Fernandes later secured the victory with his own goal.
Fernandes lauded Carrick for instilling the "right ideas" and giving players "responsibility and freedom on the pitch". He believes Carrick's approach empowers players to make crucial decisions during the game. Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Fernandes expressed his confidence in Carrick's managerial abilities, recalling a previous conversation where he predicted Carrick would become a "great manager".
Carrick, who has yet to lose in seven games across two spells as interim boss, has seemingly revitalized the team since replacing Ruben Amorim last month. Manchester United look unrecognizable compared to their performance under Amorim, who implemented a rigid 3-4-2-1 formation. Carrick, in contrast, appears to be giving the players more freedom and allowing their natural qualities to shine.
Carrick has reinstated Fernandes in his preferred number 10 position. Fernandes also displays his versatility by playing as a second striker when United are out of possession, and even contributed effectively from the left wing after a late substitution. Carrick praised Fernandes' commitment and ability to make a difference in crucial moments.
The win against Tottenham solidifies Manchester United's place in the Premier League's top four. They are now within two points of Aston Villa in third place, and have created a five-point gap between themselves and Liverpool in sixth. A top-five finish this season is likely to guarantee a Champions League spot, thanks to the strong performance of English teams in European competitions.
Carrick himself has urged the United hierarchy not to rush the decision on the next permanent manager. However, the results and performances under his leadership are making a strong case for him to be considered for the job beyond the current season. Fernandes' praise and the team's improved performance suggest that Carrick has created a positive environment and is unlocking the potential within the Manchester United squad.