Roy Keane has downplayed the speculation surrounding Michael Carrick’s potential appointment as the permanent manager of Manchester United after his side’s impressive 2-0 derby victory against Manchester City at Old Trafford.
Carrick’s attacking team lifted the spirits of the club, with second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu highlighting their superiority over a lackluster City side, which saw a significant dent to their title aspirations.
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Mbeumo, back from the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon, scored with precision in the 65th minute, followed by Dorgu converting a Matheus Cunha cross to exhilarate the home crowd just ten minutes later.
Had it not been for an outstanding performance from City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and three goals being ruled out, United could have achieved an even greater victory. The visitors posed little threat, with star striker Erling Haaland limited to few opportunities.
This humbling defeat marked a major setback for City in their pursuit of Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Instead of narrowing the gap to three points, they could fall nine behind if Arsenal secures a win against Nottingham Forest later on Saturday.
For United, this victory was an ideal kickoff to Carrick’s interim leadership following Ruben Amorim’s sacking, propelling them provisionally into fourth place, as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and directors Omar Barrada and Jason Wilcox observed from the stands.
United players celebrate with Mbeumo after his goal (Manchester United via Getty Images)
In a discussion on Sky Sports, former City striker Daniel Sturridge remarked that United’s management should contemplate Carrick – whose current contract extends only until the summer – as a permanent option if he continues to deliver performances like this derby win.
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“Why not?” Sturridge suggested. “Why look elsewhere?”
Keane responded, stating: “He’s only been in charge for three days… It was the perfect circumstance for him. Everyone was available. Facing Manchester City at home, who have been somewhat off their game. You could have had a man sent off; timing and a touch of luck played into it, and they capitalized.”
“I don’t want to take credit away from him. He was great today. But everyone needs to take a step back.”
“I’m calm,” Sturridge retorted.
“Stay even calmer,” Keane insisted. “You’re suggesting he should get the job!”
Keane went on to say that Carrick’s tactical win over Pep Guardiola shouldn’t be viewed as a coaching masterclass but rather as a strategy any manager would have employed in a similar situation.
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“What’s his target, to finish fourth?” Keane questioned. “That’s the realistic expectation for Manchester United. We shouldn’t be dividing hairs, wondering if United can finish fourth. That’s a practical goal.”
“In recent months, we’ve been acknowledging that due to the current landscape of the league, there’s a genuine shot for United to secure fourth. We’re not talking about miracles. Should he achieve that and not receive the permanent position, it will still open doors for Carrick elsewhere, as people will recognize how well he has conducted himself. He’s been calm, and United showcased a positive approach. However, most coaches offered this job would likely have adopted the same tactics.”