Manchester, Jan 17 (NationPress) Michael Carrick celebrated his return as caretaker manager for Manchester United with a stunning 2-0 victory over their rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford, significantly impacting the visitors’ ambitions for the Premier League title.

Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu in the second half ensured United's triumph, showcasing one of their most dominant performances this season in front of their home fans.

Following a tightly contested first half, United took the lead in the 57th minute thanks to Mbeumo, who had just returned from competing in the Africa Cup of Nations. The play began with a swift counter-attack orchestrated by captain Bruno Fernandes, who set up Mbeumo on the left. The forward maintained his composure and finished expertly past the goalkeeper.

United increased their lead just 11 minutes later when Patrick Dorgu swiftly reacted inside the penalty area. City defender Rico Lewis was caught off guard as Dorgu capitalized on Matheus Cunha’s low cross, guiding the ball into the net.

Throughout the match, Manchester United created numerous opportunities and could have won with an even larger margin. Amad Diallo hit the post late in the game, and three goals from United were disallowed for offside. City’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made several exceptional saves to keep his team competitive, thwarting efforts from Dorgu, Diallo, Casemiro, and Mbeumo.

Even with spells of possession, Manchester City found it challenging to assert themselves offensively. Erling Haaland struggled, managing only one goal in his last seven outings, and was substituted late in the match, prompting cheers from the home crowd.

United's defense was resolute, with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez playing pivotal roles in neutralizing City’s threats. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens also made a vital save to deny Max Alleyne from a corner.

In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo stood out alongside Casemiro, helping United dominate the tempo and reduce City's attacking danger. The home side displayed greater energy and determination, particularly in the second half.

This loss leaves Manchester City without a Premier League win in four matches and raises critical concerns about their title ambitions. As their rivals prepare to play later in the weekend, City risks falling further behind in the title race.

For Manchester United, this win momentarily propels them into fourth place and provides Carrick with a memorable start to his second tenure as caretaker manager. United's next challenge is an away match against Arsenal in the league, while Manchester City will shift their focus to European competitions before resuming their domestic campaign.