A revolutionized Manchester United commenced Interim Manager, Michael Carrick’s second spell in control with a beautiful 2-0 triumph over neighbours, Manchester City, in the Premier League 2025/26 match at Old Trafford on Saturday 17 January, 2026.
Former Manchester United midfielder, Carrick’s attack-inclined Reds uprooted the dullness within the team and replaced it with brilliance.
After a first 45 minutes that recorded no goal, the home side netted twice through Bryan Mbeumo, Cameroon forward, who just finished from the Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) 2025, ongoing in Morocco; and Patrick Dorgu.
The result means Manchester City’s title hopes has suffered a very painful blow.
Mbeumo, whose country, Cameroon, got knocked out of the AFCON 2025 2-0 in the quarter finals by host nation, Morocco, opened the scoring for Manchester United in the 65th minute after midfielder, Bruno Fernandes, provided.
And, Matheus Cunha assisted Dorgu, who added the second and the winner in the 76th minute as the home fans celebrated wildly at the Theatre of Dreams.
Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens actually dominated the Derby, but, United focused on scoring and carting crucial maximum points on home soil.
Former Chelsea midfielder, Mason Mount’s goal very late, in the second minute of additional time, was struck out by Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Thanks to a stunning performance from Manchester City goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and three (3) disallowed goals, the Reds would have bagged a victory with a very wide margin.
The visitors hardly disturbed United’s defence with Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland, struggling for goal chances.
The loss really humbled Guardiola’s City and placed a large hollow on the Club’s quest with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal for the Premier League 2025/26 title.
Instead of narrowing the gap with the Gunners at the top of the table to three (3) points, Manchester City could be nine (9) points trailing if Arsenal emerges victorious over Nottingham Forest later on Saturday.
Arsenal and Nottingham Forest will lock horns in the Premier League match at City Ground on Saturday 17 January, 2026 at 18:30 (WAT).
For Manchester United, it was the Immaculate kick off to Michael Carrick’s tenure.
Inside three (3) minutes of play, defender, Harry Maguire’s free header hit the crossbar from a corner. Not long after, Dorgu forced Donnarumma to a save with a volley from close range; and Fernandes wasted a fine chance at goal by releasing to Mbeumo instead of striking for goal himself.
Photo: Bryan Mbeumo celebrates goal for Manchester United in Premier League Derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford
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