Derby Delight! Manchester United Sink Sloppy City 2–0 as Carrick Enjoys Dream Old Trafford Debut

Kenya, 17 January 2027 - Manchester United delivered a statement performance at Old Trafford, defeating local rivals Manchester City 2–0 in a pulsating Premier League derby that marked a perfect beginning for interim manager Michael Carrick. Against a City side that looked unusually careless in possession, United were ruthless when it mattered, sealing victory with second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu.

From the first whistle, there was a noticeable shift in United’s intensity and organisation. Carrick’s influence was clear, with the hosts pressing selectively, staying compact, and refusing to allow City to dominate the rhythm of the game as they often do. While Pep Guardiola’s men enjoyed more of the ball, they struggled to break through a disciplined United defence that remained alert and composed throughout.

The breakthrough arrived in the 65th minute. A loose sequence of City passing was punished when United pounced, and Bryan Mbeumo made no mistake, finishing clinically to send Old Trafford into raptures. The goal lifted the home side’s confidence, and suddenly City looked rattled.

Just 11 minutes later, United struck again. A swift attacking move carved City open, and Patrick Dorgu applied the final touch in the 76th minute, doubling United’s advantage and effectively killing off the contest. The second goal summed up United’s afternoon: decisive, direct, and merciless against a City side guilty of sloppy defending.

Despite City pushing late in search of a way back, United stood firm. Their backline remained resolute, cutting out crosses and closing down shooting angles, while the midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt City’s passing lanes. The goalkeeper was called into action on a few occasions but dealt confidently with everything thrown his way.