Interim Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick reached a historic milestone on Sunday, March 1, 2026, as his side secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. The former United midfielder looked on as a clinical strike from Bruno Fernandes and a decisive effort by Benjamin Sesko ensured the three points remained in Manchester. This latest triumph underscores the remarkable impact Carrick has had during his tenure, as he continues to steady the ship for the 20-time English champions during their late-season resurgence.
Statistically, the result places Carrick in an elite category of Premier League management. By securing this win, he has now amassed 23 points from his first nine matches in charge across his combined managerial stints at the club, consisting of seven victories and two draws. This achievement matches the record for the most successful start by any manager in the history of the competition, drawing him level with former Tottenham Hotspur tactician Ange Postecoglou, who also tallied 23 points in his opening nine fixtures.
“Manchester United caretaker manager, Michael Carrick, on Sunday made history following his side’s Premier League 2-1 win against Crystal Palace. Carrick watched as goals from Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Sesko gave the Red Devils the win against Palace. The victory against the visitors at Old Trafford earned Carrick 23 points in nine Premier League games as Manchester United manager (7 wins, 2 draws – including both spells).”
The victory carries significant weight for United’s domestic standing, as they have now ascended to third place in the Premier League table. With a total of 51 points accumulated from 28 matches, the Red Devils are firmly positioned in the race for Champions League qualification, currently holding a narrow advantage over their rivals for a top-four finish. The focus at the Aon Training Complex now shifts toward maintaining this momentum as the fixture list intensifies.
“This is the joint-best total after nine games by any manager in the Premier League history, alongside former Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou (also 23 points). Carrick will now hope guide Man United to another victory when they face Newcastle on Wednesday. Carrick’s side now sits in third position in the Premier League table from 51 points from 28 games.”
Carrick will be eager to extend this record-breaking run when Manchester United travels to St. James’ Park to face Newcastle United this Wednesday. As the club continues its search for a permanent managerial solution, Carrick’s flawless tactical record has made a compelling case for his leadership. With the squad responding positively to his guidance and key players like Sesko finding their scoring rhythm, the United faithful are increasingly optimistic about the final stretch of the 2025/26 campaign.
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