Michael Carrick’s position as Manchester United manager looks increasingly precarious after a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Carrick survived heavy defeats against Como and Bournemouth last week. However, another disappointing result in London has increased the pressure on him. United’s winless run now looks alarming.
There were signs of improvement during the first half. United played with greater purpose and intensity. They also looked dangerous on the counter-attack.
The visitors arguably controlled the opening 45 minutes. They created several promising chances and should have gone into the break ahead. However, the second half told a familiar story.
Goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, along with Lisandro Martinez’s costly red card, condemned United to another defeat. The result also increased scrutiny of Carrick’s future.
United have now gone nine games without a win. It is their longest winless run since 1988.
Results and performances continue to deteriorate. Carrick now faces a difficult task to turn things around.
Carrick expects to remain in charge for Roma clash
Carrick remained defiant during his post-match press conference. Another damaging result had left United supporters frustrated, but the manager refused to dwell on the speculation.
“It’s as simple as that. There’s no words that I can explain to you now that will make it any different. It’s not going to change it. We’ve got to move forward and win matches, “ he said.
“I thought it was as good as we’d played for some time in the first half. We looked dangerous, we looked fluid, we looked like a good team….I’m just looking forward to getting the boys ready for midweek.”
United are due to face Roma in the Champions League. Confidence around Old Trafford remains understandably low.
However, Carrick wants his players to take positives from the performance. He particularly highlighted their display during the opening 45 minutes.
Sign of improvement
United showed genuine signs of improvement at Stamford Bridge. Their first-half display arguably ranked among their best performances of the season. The underlying numbers also supported that view.
United recorded nine first-half shots and 1.15 expected goals (xG). Chelsea managed eight attempts and just 0.44 xG.
The second half brought a dramatic change. United managed only three shots and 0.09 xG. Chelsea, meanwhile, produced 11 attempts and a commanding 2.57 xG.
Those numbers highlighted United’s failure to maintain their intensity. They also struggled to control the game after the break.
Morgan Rogers found far too much space in midfield before scoring. United’s defensive struggles looked even worse after Martinez received his red card. His dismissal left the visitors with an uphill battle.
Chelsea supporters also made their feelings clear as the final whistle approached. They chanted “You’re getting sacked in the morning” as they celebrated the victory and questioned Carrick’s future.
For the United manager, the situation looks increasingly difficult. His departure might not happen immediately. However, speculation over his future continues to grow as the club considers its next move.
Estevao impresses on return to Chelsea side
The victory gave Chelsea and Xabi Alonso a much-needed boost. The team had suffered consecutive defeats against Tottenham and Liverpool.
Willian Estevao made a particularly strong impact on his return to the side. The youngster delivered an electric performance and troubled United throughout the match. He also found the net in the second half, but officials ruled the goal offside.
Alonso praised the Brazilian after the final whistle.
“Really, really happy for him,” said Alonso. “He deserved this moment to connect the good feeling on the pitch with the crowd.”
“He was tired at the end but he deserved the ovation. It’s the best way to respond to a coach when you’re not playing that much.”
Morgan Rogers also continued his impressive form since arriving in London from Birmingham. He became only the second player in the league this season to reach 10 goal involvements.
Chelsea therefore had plenty of positives to take from the result. However, their performance still showed areas that need improvement.
Palmer remains some way short of the outstanding form he displayed a couple of seasons ago. Chelsea also struggled to impose themselves during the first half.
United repeatedly exposed Chelsea on the counter-attack. That was particularly notable given United’s struggles throughout their campaign.
Alonso will need time and patience to build his preferred team. This performance also showed how much work Chelsea must do before they can seriously challenge for the Premier League title.
The victory was important after their recent setbacks. However, Chelsea still have plenty to prove as they continue to develop.
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