Manchester United have beaten Aston Villa 3-1 at Old Trafford as they take one step closer to the Champions League thanks to Michael Carrick's tactical call
15:56, 15 Mar 2026
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks on during the end of the first half during the Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester.
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Michael Carrick's side ran out 3-1 winners(Image: PA)
Even the most optimistic of Manchester United fans, waking up at the turn of the New Year, wouldn't have been dreaming about Champions League football.
And yet, with seven games left in the season, the Red Devils took a huge step to earning their spot at Europe's most elite table next season. Michael Carrick's side now have daylight between themselves and Aston Villa after Sunday.
And with Manchester City stuttering and stumbling, who knows how high Carrick could take them. It's a world away from the side that Ruben Amorim left when he was relived of his duties back in January.
Man Utd now have daylight between themselves and Aston Villa
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Man Utd now have daylight between themselves and Aston Villa(Image: PA)
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Ahead of the clash, Carrick's decision to omit Benjamin Sesko from the starting side was the main talking point. The former Midfielder said he wanted to find balance in his squad, and it didn't take long for his plan to work out.
United looked fluid with an attack of Amad, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo - with Bruno Fernandes, in the form of his life, tucked in behind.
The front three looked like a trio worthy of wearing the famous jersey as they caused all sorts of problems for the Villa defence. However, it was Casemiro that got the party started for the Red Devils, before Ross Barkley pegged them back.
Casemiro scored the first goal of the game
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Casemiro scored the first goal of the game(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
United's second was the front three at their very best, Fernandes cut apart the Villa backline with one pass, allowing an onrushing Cunha to curl the ball into the far corner.
And with United in the lead Carrick turned to Sesko. The Slovenian is an excellent striker, his goal record proves that, but he is perhaps best utilised off the bench. And Sesko would net United's third, putting the game beyond any doubt.
The Red Devils are third in the table, three points clear of Villa - who could still be leapfrogged by Liverpool on Sunday evening.
Benjamin Sesko scored off the bench
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Benjamin Sesko scored off the bench(Image: Getty Images)
United will now travel to the South Coast for a Friday night clash with Bournemouth before they have some well earned rest across the international break.
However, a tricky clash with bitter rival Leeds, who are battling relegation, is followed by a trip to Chelsea.
There is also the small task of Liverpool before the season closes if they are to earn a Champions League spot next season.