Michael Carrick has led Manchester United back to the Champions League and his record against elite clubs is promising.
After a 15th-placed finish last season, many thought Champions League qualification would be out of reach this season, but Michael Carrick has made it a reality.
Carrick has had the benefit of just playing in the Premier League this season, but some of his results, especially against the ‘Big Six’ have been remarkable.
A 2-0 win over Manchester City kick-started his interim spell, and Carrick has also managed victories over Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham.
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Michael Carrick’s ‘Big 6’ record vs ‘Other 14’
It quickly became clear that Carrick can beat world-class coaches with this United side.
In fact, against the traditional ‘Big Six’ rivals in the Premier League, Carrick has managed victories against all of them.
But it is against the lesser teams, or the so-called ‘other 14’ where Carrick has struggled.
| Michael Carrick’s record | Vs ‘Big Six’ | Vs ‘Other 14’ |
| Games played | 5 | 10 |
| Wins | 5 | 5 |
| Goals scored per 90 | 2.2 | 1.6 |
| Goals conceded per 90 | 0.8 | 1.2 |
United boast a 100% win rate against the Premier League’s elite, and are scoring more and conceding fewer goals against the ‘Big Six’.
Carrick’s two defeats so far with United have come against Newcastle United and Leeds United – both were in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
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Michael Carrick could thrive in the Champions League
It is no secret that United want to win major trophies sooner rather than later, and that includes the Premier League and Champions League.
United have secured their return to Europe, and Carrick’s record against top teams suggests he could be the best option to lead the Red Devils into the tournament.
Carrick has already bested the likes of Unai Emery, Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta and Arne Slot.
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His tendency to set up United to counter-attack in big games could suit a knock-out style tournament like the Champions League.
Carrick’s biggest problem will likely come in the Premier League when United are expected to dominate teams who are happy to sit back.
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