Fergie Time Returns: Sesko’s Stunner Seals Third Straight Win for Carrick’s United

ust when the Old Trafford faithful thought they were destined for another frustrating draw, the "United DNA" kicked in. In a match that oscillated between tactical discipline and pure chaos, Manchester United secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham, making it three wins on the bounce for interim boss Michael Carrick.

Yesterday’s clash wasn't just about the three points; it was a statement of resilience. From Casemiro’s aerial dominance to Benjamin Sesko’s stoppage-time heroics, here is how the Red Devils turned a potential collapse into a night to remember—and what it means for the rest of the season.

Match Recap: A Rollercoaster at the Theatre of Dreams

The game began with United showing the structured aggression Carrick has instilled since taking charge. Casemiro opened the scoring in the 19th minute, powering home a header from a Bruno Fernandes free-kick. The Brazilian turned provider early in the second half, delivering a sublime no-look pass for Matheus Cunha, who rifled a finish into the roof of the net to make it 2-0.

But Fulham, chasing European spots themselves, refused to roll over. A late penalty from Raúl Jiménez (85') and a stunning long-range equalizer from Kevin in the 90th minute silenced the home crowd, levelling the score at 2-2.

However, the drama wasn't over. In the 94th minute, substitute Benjamin Sesko collected a pass inside the box, showed composure beyond his years to turn his marker, and fired into the top corner. The roof blew off Old Trafford.

"It’s the greatest feeling you can experience here. Winning late, in front of the Stretford End... that builds emotion and belief layers that tactics alone cannot teach." – Michael Carrick, Post-Match

Strategic Analysis: The Carrick Blueprint

With three consecutive wins, a pattern is emerging in United’s playstyle under Carrick. It is less about dominating possession and more about controlling the moments.

1. Winning Without the Ball

Remarkably, United had only 42% possession yesterday. Under previous management, this often signaled a lack of control. Under Carrick, it looks intentional. The team is comfortable sitting in a compact 4-2-3-1 block, inviting pressure, and springing lethal counter-attacks through the pace of Cunha and Alejandro Garnacho.

2. The "Impact Sub" Strategy

Carrick’s substitutions are becoming a weapon. By bringing on Sesko for a tired Cunha, he maintained the physical threat up top. The strategy moving forward is clear: use the high-energy pressers (Cunha/Højlund) to wear down defenses for 70 minutes, then unleash clinical finishers (Sesko) when the opposition legs are heavy.

3. Casemiro’s Renaissance

Written off by many in 2025, Casemiro has found a second wind in a slightly deeper, more protected role. His ability to bypass midfield lines with a single pass was crucial yesterday. Expect United to rely heavily on his distribution to unlock low blocks in upcoming fixtures.

Moving Forward: The Gauntlet of February

The "new manager bounce" is real, but the true test lies ahead. United have climbed back into the Top 4, but the fixture list is unforgiving.

• Next Up: Tottenham Hotspur (Home) – Feb 7

• The Challenge: Spurs are direct rivals for the Champions League spots. If United can replicate yesterday's transition speed against Tottenham’s high defensive line, a fourth win is firmly on the cards.

The strategy for February will likely involve rotation. With the Europa League knockouts approaching, Carrick must decide whether to stick with this counter-attacking setup or try to implement a more possession-based game against weaker sides like Everton later in the month.

For now, the momentum is undeniable. The belief is back.

Sky247 NG: Bet on the Momentum

Manchester United are gaining steam, and the odds are shifting in their favor. Can they make it 4 wins in a row against Spurs next week?

Market to Watch:

• Match Winner: Manchester United vs Tottenham

• Player Prop: Benjamin Sesko to Score Anytime (He’s in hot form!)

• Total Goals: Over 2.5 (United’s attack is firing, but the defense still leaks)

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