Manchester United kicked off Michael Carrick’s first game as coach with a stunning 2-0 win over Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday, lifting spirits at Old Trafford.
Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu sealed victory in the 198th Manchester derby. Carrick, appointed just four days ago on a short-term deal until the end of the season, praised his team’s energy but urged consistency. “It needs to be a regular feeling,” he said.
City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged United’s dominance. “The better team won,” he said. City’s winless run extended to four games, leaving them seven points behind league leader Arsenal, who could only draw 0-0 at Nottingham Forest.
Liverpool also dropped points at home, drawing 1-1 with relegation-threatened Burnley, extending their winless streak to four games in 2026. Coach Arne Slot admitted the frustration of fans was understandable.
Chelsea, under new coach Liam Rosenior, recorded a 2-0 victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge, ending Brentford’s five-game unbeaten run. Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer scored, helping Chelsea rise to sixth in the table.
Leeds United maintained momentum with a 1-0 win over Fulham, while West Ham ended a 10-game winless streak with a 2-1 victory against Tottenham, secured by Callum Wilson’s added-time goal.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace faced setbacks, losing 2-1 at Sunderland amid growing frustration over the impending sale of captain Marc Guehi. Manager Oliver Glasner voiced concerns about a lack of support for the squad.
The weekend’s results reshaped the Premier League table, highlighting Carrick’s explosive start at United, ongoing struggles for Liverpool, and mixed fortunes for top-six contenders Arsenal, Chelsea, and West Ham.