In a spirited 5-2 Carabao Cup win over Leicester City, Manchester United showed a reinvigorated side under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, just days after Erik ten Hag’s departure.
On a night when United fans filled Old Trafford with anticipation, Van Nistelrooy’s debut as caretaker manager exceeded expectations as the team delivered a thrilling, high-energy performance rarely seen in recent months.
Captain Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro each scored twice, while Alejandro Garnacho added a well-taken goal to round off United’s dominant performance. The team’s newfound freedom and enterprise raised questions as to why they had struggled to reach these heights under Ten Hag, who was dismissed just two days earlier.
Casemiro opened the scoring with a 30-yard screamer, his second goal followed by Fernandes’ deft free kick and a sharp finish from Garnacho.
Leicester fought back, with defender Conor Coady and Bilal El Khannouss finding the net to keep United alert, but Van Nistelrooy’s side maintained control and stayed on the attack, adding a fifth goal after halftime through Fernandes.
The victory doesn't just put United in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals, it boosts Van Nistelrooy’s profile as he takes on the caretaker role.
Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim of Sporting Lisbon, reportedly Ten Hag's expected successor, maybe keeping a close watch on United’s form as he prepares to step into a team suddenly hitting its stride.
Follow Think Football Ideas across our social channels, on Facebook, [X]Twitter and Instagram.
Comments