Manchester United extended their Premier League winning streak to four matches with a controlled victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, further cementing Michael Carrick’s flawless start since returning as head coach.
The contest shifted decisively in the 29th minute when Cristian Romero was shown a straight red card for a reckless, studs-up challenge on Casemiro. Reduced to ten men, Spurs were forced into damage limitation, and United capitalised soon after. Nine minutes later, Bryan Mbeumo applied the finishing touch to an intricately worked corner routine orchestrated by Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo. Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was called into frequent action as United pressed for a second. The result was effectively sealed in the 80th minute when Fernandes converted from close range after Diogo Dalot’s driven delivery found its way through the area.
Carrick Added Momentum And It Keeps Going
The victory marked United’s first league win over Spurs since 2022 and continued the renewed sense of authority under Carrick. With an expected goals figure comfortably in their favour and Tottenham limited to minimal threat, the performance reflected both structure and control. Mbeumo’s growing reputation for delivering in high-profile fixtures was reinforced once more, but it was Fernandes who again defined the afternoon.
His goal represented his 200th direct goal involvement for the club in just 314 appearances — a remarkable return that underscores his enduring influence. Since arriving in January 2020, only Mohamed Salah has registered more Premier League goal contributions. Carrick may have injected fresh energy into the side, yet Fernandes remains its competitive pulse.
Devils Need More Depth In Midfield
Despite the relatively comfortable scoreline, the opening exchanges offered a reminder of the squad’s underlying needs. Prior to Romero’s dismissal, Tottenham’s midfield trio appeared sharper in duels and transitions, exposing moments of vulnerability in the centre of the pitch. With Casemiro’s departure anticipated in the summer, reinforcing midfield mobility and defensive coverage will be essential. Even in victory, there were passages that suggested United can be overrun when confronted with high-intensity pressing and physical presence. The red card tilted the balance decisively, but against a full complement of eleven, the midfield battle may have unfolded differently. Recruitment in this area remains a priority if United are to convert momentum into sustained success.
Romero Proves Costly For Spurs
Romero’s dismissal proved pivotal. The challenge on Casemiro was not only mistimed but unnecessary, leaving his teammates to contest over an hour with a numerical disadvantage. It marked his fourth Premier League red card, equalling an unenviable club record. For a Spurs side already navigating a lengthy injury list, the loss of composure was particularly damaging. The sending-off effectively dismantled Thomas Frank’s tactical approach and shifted the momentum irreversibly toward the hosts.
Bruno Hits Another Milestone
Fernandes’ decisive strike added further weight to an already influential display. Arriving instinctively inside the area after Dalot’s cross evaded its initial target, the captain demonstrated the anticipation and composure that have become trademarks of his tenure. Reaching 200 goal contributions in United colours is a milestone that places him among the club’s most productive modern-era figures. Beyond statistics, however, his authority and consistency continue to shape Carrick’s evolving side. On another afternoon defined by progress, Fernandes once again provided the defining touch.
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