Manchester United pulled off a stunning result in the Premier League this weekend, defeating bitter rivals Manchester City 2–0 in a fiercely contested derby at Old Trafford, handing interim manager Michael Carrick the perfect start to life back in the Old Trafford hot-seat.
Second-half strikes from Bryan Mbeumo in the 65th minute and Patrick Dorgu 11 minutes later propelled United to a deserved victory, denying City their momentum in the title race and giving United fans a moment to savour in one of football’s most iconic rivalries.
The game began cagey, with neither side able to find a breakthrough in the opening stages. United had several earlier efforts ruled out for narrow offside calls, and City’s defence — marshalled by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma — repeatedly kept the hosts at bay. But the home side’s persistence paid off after the interval, as Mbeumo capitalised on a swift United counterattack to fire low into the net and ignite the stadium.
United doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Dorgu met a well-placed cross to power home from close range, giving the Reds breathing room and leaving City with an uphill battle they could not overcome. Despite late pressure, City were unable to penetrate United’s resolute defence, sealing a clean sheet and a memorable derby triumph.
Speaking after the match, interim boss Michael Carrick expressed pride in his players and highlighted the importance of the result. “This was a big game for the club, for our fans and for everyone associated with Manchester United,” Carrick said. “We showed great intensity, tactical discipline and belief today. This victory can give us momentum going forward.”
City manager Pep Guardiola conceded that United were the better side on the day, acknowledging his team’s shortcomings in key moments. “The better team won,” Guardiola said. “Manchester United showed more energy and intensity. We will look to respond as we continue our season.”
The result offers a timely boost for United’s Premier League campaign, lifting them temporarily into the top-five mix and sparking optimism among supporters around the club’s future under Carrick’s leadership. For City, the loss represents a significant blow to their title hopes and extends a frustrating run of results in recent derbies.
