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Analysis of the match between Arsenal and Manchester United
Immediately after being appointed interim manager following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, Michael Carrick quickly injected a fresh approach into Manchester United’s style of play. Despite facing an enormous challenge against Manchester City, the 44-year-old English coach guided the Red Devils to a stunning 2–0 victory over one of the Premier League title contenders.
More importantly, this win was no stroke of luck but a clear reflection of Carrick’s tactical influence. Under his leadership, United set up a disciplined and highly compact defensive system that completely neutralized City’s attacking stars. Despite dominating possession, the visitors failed to register a single shot on target against the solid Old Trafford back line.
In contrast to City’s attacking struggles, United’s counter-attacks were fluid, quick and full of threat. In fact, scoring just two goals hardly did justice to the number of chances created by the Red Devils. Were it not for the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Donnarumma, along with three offside traps that denied United clear goals, City could have suffered an even heavier defeat.
Overall, Manchester United are clearly showing signs of revival following the change on the touchline. This provides Bruno Fernandes and his teammates with a solid platform of confidence ahead of their trip to Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium. In terms of form, Arsenal—currently on a 12-match unbeaten run with nine wins—are undeniably in better shape than United.
However, the Gunners cannot afford to be complacent. United may struggle against weaker opposition at times, but they consistently rise to the occasion in big matches. This season alone, they have beaten Chelsea and Liverpool, drawn with Tottenham, and most recently defeated Manchester City. Combined with the renewed enthusiasm following Amorim’s departure, Carrick’s side are more than capable of forcing Arsenal to settle for at least a point.
