Carrick is shaping the identity of the Red Devils.

In the 25th round, MU comfortably defeated Tottenham 2-0, extending their winning streak to four games. Not only have they won every match since Carrick took over, but MU has also impressed by beating long-time dominant rivals.

First, MU crushed Man City with a commanding performance, ended a 7-year winless streak at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, and most recently, against Tottenham, the Red Devils broke an 8-year run of only draws and losses against this opponent.

Appointing Michael Carrick as interim manager was a smart move for MU. This young strategist quickly transformed the Red Devils’ style, and the 46-year-old coach instilled a resilient fighting spirit in the players, who no longer give up easily. Carrick has truly revitalized MU behind the scenes after the Amorim era. Players now enter matches fighting with full commitment, finding their rhythm on the pitch.

Beyond spirit, MU’s tactics have also improved markedly. Carrick replaced Amorim’s rigid 3-4-3 system with a 4-2-3-1 formation, making personnel adjustments better suited to each player’s position.

Bruno Fernandes is no longer pulled back to play central midfield alongside Casemiro. Instead, he has been returned to his natural “number 10” position and has shown outstanding displays. Positioned as an attacking midfielder just behind the forwards, Bruno can drift wide to deliver crosses for teammates to attack the goal. He is also ready to join the attack inside the box when needed.

A key highlight in Carrick’s tactical setup is starting Kobbie Mainoo alongside Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder’s vast experience combined with Mainoo’s ability to control the tempo creates an ideal balanced core for the Red Devils. Mainoo acts as a link between lines, allowing Bruno to focus on attacking duties while easing defensive pressure on Casemiro.

Carrick also boldly reinstated Harry Maguire to stabilize the defense. He moved Bryan Mbeumo back to striker and used Matheus Cunha as a sharp tactical option. These choices were not experimental but based on deep understanding of his players.

By placing players in their proper roles and boosting their confidence, MU began to take off. They beat opponents with quick combinations and runs into spaces behind defenses. When facing deep defensive blocks, they effectively used set pieces as a weapon before scoring through dynamic attacking movements.

Behind the scenes, Carrick is making many changes, creating a more open atmosphere within the team. He frequently talks with players in the dressing room after matches, something Amorim rarely did before. Carrick encourages his players to give personal feedback, fostering comfort and openness.

Training sessions have been shortened but intensified. The coach focuses on conditioning to give his players more energy for the pressing style MU now pursues.

Carrick has also changed some rules at MU, and these adjustments are making a difference. Notably, this strategist has helped many stars rediscover themselves at Old Trafford.

It is clear that Carrick not only wins big matches but also succeeds in gaining the trust of strong personalities within the squad.

It is no coincidence that Carrick was able to immediately stabilize the chaotic team left by Ruben Amorim and produce victories. Upon taking the interim manager role, the 44-year-old confidently stated, “I know what it takes to succeed here, and my goal is to help the players reach the standards and meet the expectations of this fantastic club.”

Having spent 12 years wearing the red jersey as a player and winning numerous titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, Carrick is well aware of the core principles that define MU’s success.

Carrick is demonstrating the qualities of a modern coach who truly understands Old Trafford.