Everton - MU: A quality test featuring Carrick

Everton’s 1-0 victory over MU at Old Trafford in November 2025 was their first success at the Theatre of Dreams since December 2013. That result marked a win for David Moyes at a stadium that rarely brought him triumph during his 2013-2014 tenure as MU manager. It was also the last time the Merseyside club defeated the Red Devils in a Premier League match in Manchester.

However, at home this season, Everton have lost 5 of their last 10 matches and secured only 3 wins in that span. Their biggest weakness remains a fragile defense. Conceding 18 goals in 13 home games highlights their vulnerability. But if they can claim all 3 points against MU, The Toffees will strengthen their chances of qualifying for European competition, with city rivals Liverpool currently 6th and only 5 points ahead in the standings.

Beating MU for the second time this season will certainly not be easy for the Merseyside side, especially considering the resurgence of the Manchester team since Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim.

For MU, the narrow draw against West Ham in the previous round is just a minor blemish on an otherwise strong run under coach Carrick recently. Notably, the Red Devils remain unbeaten in 9 Premier League matches, spanning from Ruben Amorim’s tenure to Carrick’s interim period (5 wins, 4 draws). This impressive streak keeps them solidly in the Top 5 (45 points from 26 games).

The Manchester Red Devils have gone 9 matches unbeaten in the Premier League, with 4 wins in their last 5 games under new coach Carrick. With direct rivals Chelsea and Aston Villa dropping points, the Red Devils are increasingly confident about making a breakthrough in the league standings.

Under Carrick’s guidance, MU’s performance has significantly improved. Red Devils fans are hopeful for a positive result in their away game at Everton’s Hill Dickinson stadium.

Statistics show MU leads the league with the most shots on goal, totaling 418 after 26 matches. On the road, they have scored 22 goals, averaging 1.69 goals per game, and have found the net in 11 consecutive away matches. Everton is also MU’s favorite opponent in the Premier League. With their offense running smoothly, MU can exploit Everton’s defensive weaknesses to secure all 3 points. The 44-year-old coach currently faces a “pleasant dilemma,” as Sesko has impressed with important late goals off the bench, demonstrating the team’s resilience at critical moments.

The Everton vs. MU match will kick off at 3 AM on February 24th. This game is not only a chance for the Red Devils to avenge their 0-1 loss in the first leg but also a vital moment in the battle for a Champions League qualification spot. Coach Carrick’s squad must win this round to break into the Top 4.

Projected starting lineups for both teams
Everton: Pickford, Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko, Gueye, Garner, Armstrong, Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye, Barry
MU: Lammens, Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw, Casemiro, Mainoo, Diallo, Fernandes, Cunha, Mbeumo