Arsene Wenger: 'Michael Carrick has discovered the formula to counter Arsenal'

Arsene Wenger admitted that Michael Carrick devised an effective method to contain Arsenal, leading to the Gunners losing their grip on the match and facing a harsh loss at Emirates.

The legendary coach Arsene Wenger believes Michael Carrick has uncovered a “sensible formula” to suppress Arsenal, which helped Manchester United create a shock at Emirates and deal a significant blow to Arsenal's title ambitions.

Arsenal entered the match aiming to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points, following Manchester City’s victory over Wolves. The home side even took an early lead when Lisandro Martinez scored an own goal during Carrick’s second game as interim manager at Old Trafford.

However, Manchester United demonstrated the familiar threat that had helped them defeat Man City in the previous round. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu turned the game around for the visitors, forcing Arsenal to chase the score. Although Mikel Merino capitalized on a Bukayo Saka corner to equalize late, raising hopes for a draw, that optimism was quickly dashed. Shortly after, substitute Matheus Cunha delivered a stunning shot past David Raya, sealing a 3-2 victory for Man United.

In a post-match analysis on beIN SPORTS, Arsene Wenger praised Michael Carrick while highlighting some issues within his former team. “Arsenal wanted to win so badly that they became impatient in their build-up. They played with too much force and lacked the necessary finesse,” Wenger commented. He believes Carrick struck the perfect balance between solid defense and technical quality, which left Arsenal struggling.

Notably, Wenger admitted he was surprised that Arsenal’s usually reliable center-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes appeared “weaker” than usual. “This is the first time I’ve felt they were less dominant. On the first goal conceded, Saliba should have supported Zubimendi instead of pushing forward too early,” he analyzed.

This defeat marked Arsenal’s first home loss of the season, narrowing their lead over Man City to just four points with 15 matches remaining. Meanwhile, Manchester United climbed into the Champions League qualification spots, maintaining a perfect record under Michael Carrick and sending a strong message for the rest of the season.