Reviewing Michael Carrick's performance as Manchester United's interim manager in four matches, remaining unbeaten against world-class coaches before heading to face Arsenal and getting another chance to face Mikel Arteta.
On 19 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Michael Carrick, Manchester United's legendary former midfielder, once again proved that serving as interim manager is no small task. Each time he has stepped up to manage the team, it has been in major matches against Europe's top coaches.
Including both of his interim management stints, Carrick has led Manchester United in four matches, achieving three wins and one draw, remaining unbeaten.
Michael Carrick's interim management record:
23 Nov 2021 GMT+7, UEFA Champions League group stage: Villarreal 0-2 Manchester United → An away win against Unai Emery's team.
28 Nov 2021 GMT+7, English Premier League: Chelsea 1-1 Manchester United → An away draw against Chelsea under Thomas Tuchel.
2 Dec 2021 GMT+7, English Premier League: Manchester United 3-2 Arsenal → A home win over Arsenal managed by Mikel Arteta.
17 Jan 2026 GMT+7, English Premier League: Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City → A derby victory over Pep Guardiola's team.
The latest win in the Manchester derby was considered one of the season's biggest surprises. Before the game, the "Red Devils" were in transition, having sacked their head coach and were seen as inferior to Manchester City in almost every aspect.
However, throughout the 90 minutes at Old Trafford, Carrick's Manchester United played with clear tactical discipline. Their defense was solid and effectively shut down Manchester City's attack, who failed to register a single shot on target.
Next up, Michael Carrick will face a familiar opponent again, Mikel Arteta, when Manchester United travel to face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday, 25 Jan 2026 GMT+7.
The key question is whether Carrick's unbeaten streak in big matches will continue, or if the title-chasing version of Arsenal will be the first team to end the interim manager's outstanding run.