In the competitive landscape of the Premier League 2025-26 season, Manchester United have found renewed momentum under interim head coach Michael Carrick. Their narrow 1-0 victory over Everton on February 23, 2026, at the Hill Dickinson Stadium not only delivered three crucial points but also highlighted the emergence of two summer signings who are proving instrumental in the club’s bid to reclaim a place in the Champions League. For online readers tracking Manchester United Premier League updates and the development of young stars, this result underscores how tactical discipline and impactful substitutions can transform a season.
The game itself was a classic example of efficiency over dominance. Everton, playing at their new home venue, applied pressure especially in the latter stages, yet Manchester United defended resolutely and struck decisively on the counter. Benjamin Sesko, entering as a substitute for Amad Diallo around the 58th minute, produced the decisive moment in the 71st minute. A long, searching pass from Matheus Cunha deep in United’s half isolated Bryan Mbeumo, who accelerated past Michael Keane and delivered a perfect square ball. Sesko, having covered more than 70 yards at pace, composed himself and slotted a ruthless first-time finish past Jordan Pickford. The goal, his eighth of the campaign and sixth in his last seven appearances, exemplified the Slovenian’s blend of endurance, speed, and composure.
Moreover, this contribution marked Sesko’s third match-winning intervention from the bench in four games under Carrick. Signed from RB Leipzig in August 2025 for an initial £73.7 million, the 22-year-old Slovenian international had managed only two goals under previous manager Ruben Amorim. His transformation since Carrick’s appointment on January 13, 2026, has been remarkable. Despite not starting any of Carrick’s six Premier League matches, Sesko has embraced the super-sub role with enthusiasm. After the Everton win, he told Sky Sports, “I believe in me and so do the other players. They know what they are going to get when I arrive in the game. Whether that is five minutes or 90 minutes, it doesn’t really matter.”
Carrick, meanwhile, has praised Sesko’s rapid progress. “He is growing as a player,” the interim boss noted. “Sometimes it’s big steps, sometimes it’s little steps. He has taken some huge ones recently. The confidence and belief he is playing with is great to see.” This positive relationship has clearly boosted the forward’s output and helped Manchester United climb the table.
Senne Lammens’ Heroics Secure the Clean Sheet
At the opposite end of the pitch, another recent arrival shone brightly. Senne Lammens, the 23-year-old Belgian goalkeeper signed from Royal Antwerp in September 2025 for £18.1 million, produced a series of vital interventions. He denied Michael Keane with a stunning save on a powerful strike that Everton manager David Moyes believed was destined for the net. Lammens also commanded his area confidently during a barrage of 10 corners, calmly dealing with deliveries aimed at unsettling him.
Moyes was unequivocal in his post-match assessment: “Their goalie was brilliant tonight. The save he made from Michael, the way he dealt with corner kicks. The pressure we had. For me, their goalkeeper was the best player.” This performance earned Lammens comparisons to former Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar. Carrick, choosing his words carefully, highlighted similarities in temperament: “You want a goalkeeper to be reliable and trustworthy. Instead of creating chaos, you want him to take the chaos away and calm things down. I think Senne is that. He’s got real steel.”
The clean sheet represented United’s first away shutout in the Premier League since March 2025 and Lammens’ third in his last six appearances. By blocking Everton’s late push, he ensured the three points that propelled Manchester United into sole fourth position.
Tactical Discipline and Carrick’s Influence
Since taking charge following Amorim’s departure, Carrick has overseen a remarkable turnaround. Manchester United have now extended their Premier League unbeaten run to 10 matches—the longest since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side achieved 14 between January and May 2021. This latest success brings their record under Carrick to five wins and one draw from six games, showcasing improved organisation, mental resilience, and effective use of the squad.
The interim manager has fostered a calm environment amid earlier season turbulence. Injuries and squad rotation have been managed thoughtfully, allowing players like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to contribute to the decisive counter-attack. Carrick’s decision to trust younger talents such as Sesko and Lammens, rather than pursuing more experienced options like Emi Martínez in the summer window, is paying dividends.
Recent Manchester United Premier League Form Under Michael Carrick
| Match | Opponent | Result | Key Contributor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 23, 2026 | Everton | 1-0 W | Sesko (sub goal) |
| Feb 10, 2026 | West Ham | 1-1 D | Sesko (stoppage vol) |
| Recent (4 games) | Various | W W W D | Sesko (3 goals) |
| Overall (6 games) | – | 5W 1D | Lammens (clean sheets) |
This table illustrates the direct impact of the young duo and the consistency Carrick has instilled.
Champions League Prospects Take Shape
At the season’s outset, European qualification—likely Europa League—was viewed internally as the realistic target. However, director of football Jason Wilcox encouraged the squad to aim higher after Amorim’s exit. The difference in prestige and financial reward between the Champions League and lower European competitions is substantial, and Manchester United now sit in a commanding position to achieve it.
With no midweek European fixtures, unlike Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Liverpool, Carrick’s men can concentrate fully on Premier League fixtures. They currently hold 48 points from 27 games (13-9-5), three points clear of fifth place. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, analysing for Sky Sports, declared, “Manchester United are now virtually guaranteed one of the Champions League places. I can’t see them not making it.”
Sesko’s emergence and Lammens’ reliability have been central to this surge. The Slovenian’s ability to deliver in limited minutes has added unpredictability, while the Belgian’s composure has provided a foundation at the back. Together, they symbolise a youthful core beginning to blossom at Old Trafford.
What Lies Ahead for Manchester United
As the campaign enters its final stretch, the focus remains on maintaining this momentum. Carrick has emphasised squad harmony and continued development, noting his strong relationship with Sesko and the goalkeeper’s growing influence. For supporters eager to see Manchester United Champions League football return after a two-year absence, the signs are encouraging.
The 1-0 win at Everton, though not a spectacle, delivered exactly what was required: points, a clean sheet, and further evidence of character. With Sesko brimming with confidence and Lammens providing steel between the posts, Manchester United appear equipped to navigate the challenges ahead. This result not only cements their top-four standing but also fuels realistic dreams of competing once more on Europe’s grandest stage.
In summary, the contributions of Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens have been pivotal in Manchester United’s resurgence. Their performances against Everton exemplify the blend of talent, work rate, and belief that Carrick has cultivated. As the Premier League season progresses, these young stars, supported by a cohesive team, position the club strongly for a triumphant return to the Champions League.
