Manchester United’s unbeaten streak in 2026 is over after losing 2-1 to Newcastle United in the Premier League.
A late winner from William Osula stung Manchester United at St James’ Park, inflicting Michael Carrick’s first defeat as interim head coach.
A cagey first half exploded into life when Newcastle midfielder Jacob Ramsey was sent off, and the hosts took the lead just moments later when Bruno Fernandes conceded a penalty that was converted by United-linked Anthony Gordon. However, Casemiro scored to draw United level before the half-time whistle.
Substitute William Osula scored in the 90th minute, and United were unable to find another response.
Casemiro celebrates scoring for Manchester United against Newcastle United.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
10-men problem returns
Once again, United found themselves playing against 10 men when Ramsey was sent off in the first half.
Just minutes later, United went a goal behind to Gordon’s penalty. It is not the first time this season that the Red Devils have struggled when having a numerical advantage.
Earlier this season, United lost to 10-men Everton. Bizarrely, United seemed to play worse in the second half against Newcastle’s 10 men than they did in the first 45 minutes. A dilemma for Carrick and his staff.
Man Utd can’t rely on comebacks
Last week, United came from behind to beat Crystal Palace, and it looked like a similar storyline could unfold in Newcastle.
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United fell behind to Gordon’s penalty but had an immediate response through Casemiro’s leveller.
Incredibly, the Red Devils had lost just one of their last eight games they have gone behind in, but it was Newcastle who went on to win it just as United were pushing for a second goal.
Casemiro is Man Utd’s black-eyed bruiser
Eyebrows were raised when Casemiro stepped out onto St James’ Park with a big bruise around his eye.
But it didn’t stop the Brazilian from getting his head on Bruno Fernandes’ cross to draw United level at the end of the first half.
It was Casemiro’s sixth goal in the Premier League this season, four of which have been assisted by Fernandes. Replacing the 34-year-old is going to be a huge challenge for Ineos.
St James’ Park curse continues
Trips to Tyneside have not been favourable for United in recent seasons.
Man Utd have not done the double over Newcastle in the league since 2020/21
Are you confident we will win away vs Newcastle under Michael Carrick?
graphic- Results vs Newcastle away
Getty Images
United’s last win at St James’ Park came with a 4-1 victory in the 2020/21 season. The past four visits to this stadium have now all ended in defeat.
Bruno Fernandes bounces back from blip
Fernandes has been in red-hot form for United in recent weeks and has arguably been the best player in the Premier League this season.
But his evening in Newcastle started by conceding the penalty which led to Gordon’s opener. The Portuguese playmaker didn’t take long to redeem himself by assisting Casemiro, taking his tally for the season up to 14 in the Premier League.
Fernandes is never far from the action, and there is no surprise that he didn’t allow the penalty mistake to affect his performance.
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