I keep thinking about something that Maguire said after the match - that Carrik brought "fresh energy" and "galvanised" the group. Sounds like the usual footballer speak right? But I actually believe him this time.
Carrick literally just told them to play in a back four instead of whatever was coming from Amorim's head. That's it. Simple stuff but apparently nobody thought of doing that before?
Under Amorim they looked confused, hesitant, they looked like they were always thinking about positioning, not playing. Now Mainoo's back in the team, Bruno's higher up and suddenly everything makes sense again. Sometimes football is really that simple and the coaches over-complicate it for no reason.
Maguire's words are true and Michael Carrick did what Amorim should have done. On this occasion, I am not saying that Amorim is bad, but the level of complexity makes the game difficult to develop because those who receive his instructions cannot fully execute them during the match.
Carrick practiced what he did during his career at Old Trafford. His role was not like Ronaldo, who managed to run fast, dribble past 5 opposing players, and score goals in every game. Or like Rooney or Scholes. On the field, Carrick was the guardian of the team's integrity. He didn't hold the ball much, but when the team was not on track, Carrick was there as a mediator between anger and ego.
When Koobie returns to the starting lineup, Bruno has more freedom above him, and Casemiro can also play his role as a tough midfielder because Koobie acts as a balancer. He doesn't hold the ball much, but he knows when to pass and when to make a run.
Fresh energy and enthusiasm are evident in all the players on the field. Carrick knows how to instill confidence in his players. When a player deserves to be substituted, he does it. If not, Carrick will maintain his trust until the match ends.
