Manchester United has recorded its first draw under caretaker Michael Carrick, marking the first match without a victory since his return to Old Trafford.
The former midfielder has surprised many with his ability to lead the team, leading to wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham Hotspur.
However, West Ham United halted this winning streak with a 1-1 draw, thanks to Benjamin Sesko’s contribution.
The match promised excitement from the start, as goalkeeper Senne Lammens saved a long-range shot from Crysencio Summerville in the 12th minute.
At the other end, former United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka blocked a shot from Luke Shaw shortly after a Bruno Fernandes corner in the 21st minute.
The breakthrough came in the 50th minute when Tomos Soucek scored from a Jarrod Bowen cross, navigating between Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo.
In the 62nd minute, United fans thought they equalized when Casemiro scored from a Mainoo cross, but it was ruled offside.
Sesko ultimately secured the draw by skillfully connecting with a Bryan Mbeumo cross to chip the ball into the net.
This result keeps United in fourth place, in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
Despite the draw, here’s what we learned from the match.
1. Dependence on the Left Despite Missing Patrick Dorgu
Recently, Manchester United has been strong in attack, with Patrick Dorgu transitioning to an attacking role despite being a left-back.
Though he scored two impressive goals recently and earned a nomination for the Premier League’s January Player of the Month, his absence due to injury was felt.
Throughout the match, United focused primarily on the left side but struggled against Wan-Bissaka’s defense.
Chances came more readily from the right, seen in Casemiro’s disallowed goal and late attempts from Zirkzee and Sesko, both stemming from the right flank.
2. Effective Use of Substitutes by Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick effectively used his substitutes once again, notably with Sesko, who scored off the bench like he did against Fulham.
Leny Yoro stepped in for the injured Harry Maguire in the 68th minute, showing strong defensive capabilities.
Recent practice with Jonny Evans appears to be paying off, as substitutes have consistently contributed to play, scoring or assisting in four of the last five matches.
3. Difficulty Breaking Through West Ham’s Defense
Despite recent attacking successes, United struggled against West Ham’s well-organized defense.
Manager Nuno Espiranto Santos employed a low block strategy that effectively limited United’s scoring chances.
The Red Devils often found themselves thwarted, with Casemiro’s potential goal ruled offside by VAR.
4. West Ham Turned United’s Tactics Against Them
In recent matches against City and Arsenal, United successfully shut down their opponents’ attacks through double-teaming on the wings.
West Ham employed similar tactics, effectively limiting United’s key players, forcing them to work harder for scoring opportunities.
5. United’s Resurgence of Passion and Drive
Finally, it’s clear that United has regained its fighting spirit.
Despite challenges, the team maintained persistent efforts, highlighted by Casemiro’s emotional reaction to his disallowed goal.
Late attempts from Zirkzee and eventually Sesko showcased the team’s determination, a quality that has often been missing.
While a win would have been ideal, the draw does not signify a decline for United.