Manchester United’s unbeaten streak under new manager Michael Carrick came to an end at seven matches with a 2-1 loss to Newcastle United. The match saw Newcastle’s midfielder Jacob Ramsey sent off during first-half stoppage time, with striker William Osula scoring the winning goal in the 90th minute.
After the match, Carrick expressed disappointment, marking it as the worst performance of his tenure. Under his leadership, United had celebrated six wins in a strong start, but this defeat contrasted sharply.
“We came here in good shape, looking to get something from the game,” Carrick reflected. “It’s disappointing how it unfolded. We know we can perform much better. This one hurts after the solid run we’ve had.”
However, it wasn’t all gloom for Carrick and United. Other results, including Aston Villa‘s defeat to Chelsea, allowed United to remain in third place, level on 51 points with Villa but ahead on goal difference.
Carrick stepped in for Ruben Amorim in mid-January, following Darren Fletcher’s brief stint as manager after the Portuguese was dismissed on January 5.
Under Carrick’s management, United has seen improved performances, including victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, helping the team climb into Champions League contention.
Despite the setback, Carrick insists his focus remains on taking it one match at a time. He previously mentioned that pursuing league leaders Arsenal, currently 16 points ahead, was not entirely ruled out.
“We need to keep winning games and take it as it comes,” Carrick stated. “There are formidable teams ahead of us. We’ve had a positive run, but we won’t let ourselves get too ahead of what lies ahead.”
Next up for Carrick and United is a home fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday.
Information from PA and The Associated Press contributed to this report.