Michael Carrick has revealed how tactical “tweaks” and a required personality change led Manchester United to a crucial 2-1 come-from-behind victory over Crystal Palace.
The victory at Old Trafford maintained Carrick’s unbeaten start as caretaker manager and moved the Red Devils into third place in the Premier League standings.
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Michael Carrick talks about his emotional return to Man United in the second half
United endured a slow start and fell behind when Maxence Lacroix headed home from a corner kick just four minutes into the game.
Despite a strong first half, Carrick clearly felt a change was needed as he was seen energetically jogging down the tunnel at the interval.
He told reporters after the match (quoted from The Sun).
“This is the first time we’ve been in a situation like that at half-time.
“At halftime, it was important to be in that position and show how we reacted – that character and belief. We wanted to make more runs and be a little more aggressive in attacking the opponent’s last line.”
The coach downplayed his role in the turnaround, claiming the adjustments were minor.
“I might have had some ideas, just tweaking the shape a little bit. To be honest, it wasn’t a big deal and I don’t really appreciate it. It was more about finding a way.”
The tactical change paid off when Matheus Cunha was fouled from a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes coolly converted to level the score.
Benjamin Sesko scores the winning goal again.
In the 65th minute, Benjamin Sesco, the man of the hour, made a comeback.
The Slovenian striker, making his first start in the league under Carrick, justified his selection by rising high to turn home a cross from Fernandes.
It was Sesco’s fourth goal in his last five games and cemented his reputation as one of the league’s most clinical finishers in 2026.
Despite a difficult start to his United career, the £74m signing appears to be progressing well under Carrick’s guidance.
As the battle for the top four intensifies, Manchester United continues to make a comeback under manager Carrick.
Injuries to Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were the only downside for Manchester United. The best players need to be fit as we enter the final stages.
