Where Did Carrick Go Wrong? Analyzing 3 Key Problems for Man United After Draw with Leeds, Extending Winless Streak to 6 Matches in All Competitions
On 19 Oct 2026 GMT+7, the Daily Mail, a leading UK media outlet, analyzed Manchester United's ongoing struggles, highlighting that the team has now gone six matches without a win in all competitions following a 1-1 away draw with Leeds United in the English Premier League. United currently sit 13th in the table with only 7 points.
This is not a performance that conceals the deep-rooted problems in Michael Carrick's team. However, in terms of results, it is somewhat acceptable, particularly given the visit to Leeds, a team with clear tactics, strong determination, and a capable coach.
Although Manchester United took a 1-0 lead in the first half and dominated for a period, they completely lost control of the game afterward. Leeds equalized in the 51st minute and then took over control of the match.
Ultimately, Leeds, energized by Daniel Farke, held 62 percent possession. This was a major reason for United's poor situation, as their midfield—the area crucial for dictating tempo and gaining advantage—clearly showed its weaknesses.
In this match, Carrick set up a formation seemingly with three defenders, deploying two new midfielders, Andrei Santos and Carlos Baleba, to control the game tempo and possession. Their performance was only "adequate."
Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who scored the equalizer, stated clearly, "They tried to adjust their tactics to match ours, which isn’t surprising given last season’s events, and they tried man-to-man marking."
"We needed some time to adapt, but I don’t think it was too difficult. The main problem was probably on our side, possibly due to a lack of quality in the final third. I think we were unlucky not to win this game."
As the game progressed, Leeds showed increasing determination to win, while Manchester United seemed content just to hold on for a draw.
In the final stages, United's play under Carrick appeared disorganized. A clear example was during three promising counterattack chances in just five minutes, which ended in unnecessary offsides and lacked careful execution.
Although Carrick has tried to adjust tactics to find a winning formula, success has yet to come. Manchester United fans will have to wait longer to celebrate another victory.
