Goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu, and Matheus Cunha secured Manchester United a victory over league leaders Arsenal at their home stadium, propelling them into the top 4. These three points at the Emirates also marked the Red Devils' first away win against Arsenal in the Premier League since December 2017.

With Manchester United already eliminated from domestic cup competitions and only 15 Premier League matches remaining, Carrick's promising start has fueled expectations for a strong finish and a high league position. However, the 44-year-old English coach wants his players to maintain maximum focus on their immediate objectives, beginning with this weekend's home fixture against Fulham at Old Trafford.

"I am not under any illusions", Carrick stated after the match. "The team faces significant, even greater, challenges ahead, because for Manchester United, the next match is always the most important. Therefore, we cannot afford to be complacent. The entire squad still has crucial objectives and must continue to improve in many areas."

Coach Michael Carrick during Manchester United's 3-2 victory over Arsenal at Emirates Stadium, London, in Premier League round 23 on 25/1. *Photo: AFP*

He also cautioned his players against looking too far into the future. "Overthinking things too early can be counterproductive", the coach emphasized. "The team needs to approach each week, each match, individually. Victories against Manchester City and then Arsenal bring immense emotion, energy, and confidence, but we must remain grounded and understand the reasons behind these results. Manchester United needs to harness this momentum and self-belief, but crucially, stay focused, using it as a foundation and the key to further progress."

In just two matches under Carrick, Manchester United has secured 6 points. In contrast, under Ruben Amorim, the team took five matches to earn 7 points before suffering three consecutive defeats. Following yesterday's victory over Arsenal, discussions about Carrick's permanent position at Manchester United have resurfaced.

"I will not address the future of the head coach position on a weekly basis", he affirmed. "I am happy with my current role and will continue to give my utmost. We have only been working together for less than two weeks, so the core focus is on establishing positive habits and routines. The entire squad is working diligently."

Seven seasons ago, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also arrived at Old Trafford as an interim manager, winning eight consecutive matches, then six of the next nine, culminating in a memorable comeback against PSG in the Champions League. This impressive run led to him being offered a permanent contract before the 2018-2019 season concluded. Although Solskjaer guided Manchester United to the 2021 Europa League final, the initial promises of his tenure were not sustained.

A Sky Sports reporter attempted to press Carrick on whether he desired the permanent managerial role, but Carrick declined to engage in the debate. "I am here to work. When I first arrived, I stated that every decision would be made for the broader benefit of the club. We will not allow emotions to sway us; the entire team will remain grounded."

Ha Phuong reports.