Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Michael Carrick’s first defeat as Manchester United boss came at the hands of a late William Osula goal for Newcastle United.
It looked as though Manchester United were pushing for a winner at St James’ Park against 10-man Newcastle United, but William Osula sank the Red Devils late on with a curling effort.
United’s 2-1 loss to Newcastle was the club’s first defeat in 2026, and it puts a dent in the hopes of qualifying for the Champions League this season.
Carrick shared the frustration of United fans at full-time after throwing away valuable points on Tyneside. To add to that frustration, the match-winner Osula used to play with a Manchester United badge on his chest.
Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, looks dejected following the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St James' Park on March 04, 2026
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Everton v Manchester United - Premier League
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William Osula played in Man Utd youth tournament in 2014
Osula came off the bench to score a 90th-minute winner for Newcastle on Wednesday evening, and there may be some extra emotion attached to his goal because of his history with the Red Devils.
Twelve years ago, United posted on X congratulating an 11-year-old Osula for winning the Soccer Schools World Skills Final at Old Trafford.
Osula ended up continuing his development at Copenhagen before joining Sheffield United’s academy in 2018.
His move to Newcastle came about in 2024 when the Magpies paid ÂŁ15 million for his signature.
Newcastle United v Manchester United - Premier League
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Man Utd only have themselves to blame vs Newcastle
In Carrick’s post-match comments, he rightly pointed out that Newcastle were deserved winners at St James’ Park, despite going down to 10 men.
Eddie Howe said Newcastle would attack, and they stuck to that game plan even after the red card to Jacob Ramsey.
READ MORE: Michael Carrick failed crucial Man Utd test vs Newcastle, Amorim and Ten Hag were slaughtered for it
United were outfought and outrun by Newcastle, and Carrick and his staff will have to go back to the drawing board ahead of an important clash against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
While Osula was the match winner from a moment of brilliance, he should have never been allowed the time or space to attempt a shot at Senne Lammens’ goal.