Michael Carrick’s reign as Manchester United’s interim manager continues to defy expectations, as the Red Devils roared to their third straight Premier League win in dramatic fashion at Old Trafford. This wasn’t just another three points—it was a sensational 3-2 triumph over Fulham packed with twists, turns, and individual brilliance that left fans gasping and rivals on alert.
United’s revival has been nothing short of remarkable under Carrick, whose cool touch has made Old Trafford a fortress once more. He joins legendary company, becoming only the third manager—after Sir Matt Busby and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer—to notch up four victories in his first five Premier League games for the club. Could Carrick carve his own place in United’s storied history?
Casemiro’s class and Cunha’s cool finish dazzle at Old Trafford
Setting the stage with authority, Casemiro soared above Fulham defenders to nod in a pinpoint header for the opener in the 19th minute. Not content with just a goal, the Brazilian maestro pulled a rabbit out of his hat after the break, delivering an audacious no-look pass that set up Matheus Cunha for United’s second. With that, the Red Devils stormed to a 2-0 lead that looked unassailable.
Casemiro’s impact can’t be overstated—he’s now scored five Premier League goals this season, already matching his best European campaigns. Additionally, his stats underline his dominance; winning 7 of 9 personal duels before being substituted in the 75th minute. Only Harry Maguire outperformed him in individual battles, with 11 out of 13 duels won.
Fulham’s grit returns: Jimenez’s record-breaker and Kevin’s stunner
But United’s cruise soon hit troubled waters. Fulham, emboldened despite a disallowed goal for offside, were handed a lifeline late on. Raul Jimenez squeezed home an 85th-minute penalty after Harry Maguire’s desperate lunge inside the box. In doing so, Jimenez etched his name into Premier League folklore—his 12th penalty in 12 attempts, surpassing the legendary Yaya Toure for the best 100% penalty record in league history.
As the home fans bit their nails, Fulham’s Kevin unleashed early in stoppage time, curling a breathtaking shot past the United keeper to claim his first Premier League goal and cap a heroic comeback. For one electric moment, the visitors dared to dream of snatching all three points on hallowed Manchester turf.
Sesko’s redemption and Fernandes’ magic turn the tide
Fulham’s hopes, however, would be dashed by a last-gasp act of redemption from Benjamin Sesko. Earlier, Sesko’s miss off the post seemed destined to haunt United, but fate gave him a second chance. In the 94th minute, he pounced on a clever Bruno Fernandes cross, turning sharply to hammer home a thunderbolt and restore United’s lead in incredible fashion.
Fernandes, the heartbeat of this United side, not only masterminded Sesko’s winner but also assisted midway through the match, bringing his seasonal tally to 12—matching his best-ever Premier League campaign for assists. Here’s what made the difference for United’s stars:
- Casemiro: 1 goal, 1 assist, 7/9 duels won
- Harry Maguire: 11/13 duels won
- Bruno Fernandes: 2 assists, 12 total this season
- Benjamin Sesko: dramatic 94th-minute winner
The numbers tell a story, but the drama spoke louder
Despite the defeat, Fulham can hold their heads high. They matched United with six shots on target and astonishingly edged the expected goals (xG) battle at 1.97 to 1.74. It was only the tiniest margins—and a hint of Red Devils resilience—that denied them a famous result in Manchester.
United’s leap to fourth and Carrick’s faultless start set pulses racing across the Premier League, while Fulham’s spirited fightback won them new admirers. This match was more than just a contest of skill; it was a drama of redemption, records, and heart-stopping moments.