Michael Carrick’s Manchester United hasn’t played since their 1-1 draw with West Ham United on February 10. However, two academy teams faced Manchester City over the weekend.
Carrick has proven to be a steady presence for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS-led team, remaining unbeaten in his five matches in charge.
During this period, the former midfielder has secured victories against Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the Premier League.
However, with United out of the League Cup and FA Cup, there’s more space in their schedule.
The Under-18s and Under-16s at Carrington played in derby matches. Here’s how both games turned out.
The Manchester derby, first played in 1881, remains a significant event as two of England’s top teams compete, making it a highlight of the calendar.
Darren Fletcher returns to lead the Under-18s after a brief time in charge at Old Trafford following Ruben Amorim’s exit. His team is now just one point behind at the top of the table.
With goals from JJ Gabriel, Chido Obi, who won the “Comet of the Year” award last summer, and Jim Thwaites, the Under-18s achieved a 3-1 victory on Saturday.
In the first half at the City Football Academy, Chido hit the post twice before Gabriel, who recently received a red card against West Bromwich Albion, scored the first goal.
After taking the lead, Chido and Gabriel continued to challenge the City defense, with Chido scoring again in the 84th minute.
Tyrone Samba found a consolation goal for the hosts a minute later, but Thwaites sealed the match with a stunning long-range free-kick into the top corner.
In contrast, the Under-16s had a rougher time, losing 4-2. Caelan Cadamarteri netted three of City’s goals, bringing his season total to 30.
Kai Rooney, Wayne Rooney’s son, and Jacey Carrick, also played in the match, which saw the referee issue two red cards as tensions rose towards the end.
Fifteen-year-old Silva Mexes scored both of United’s goals, but Cadamarteri’s hat-trick and Sami Ominiyi’s goal overshadowed his performance in a difficult derby.