Bastian Schweinsteiger has offered a succinct verdict on Michael Carrick's impact as interim Manchester United boss, simply captioning a photograph 'DNA'. The former Germany midfielder, who played alongside Carrick at Old Trafford from 2015 to 2017, shared the image during German television coverage of United's 3-1 win over Aston Villa.
The comment appears to reference Carrick's deep connection with the club, having won the Premier League and Champions League during his playing career. Schweinsteiger's endorsement contrasts with criticism from another former team-mate, Paul Scholes, who had questioned United's performances under Carrick.
Scholes initially posted on Instagram that United had been 'c**p' in their previous four games, but later clarified his remarks. 'It was in no way intended to be offensive towards Michael,' Scholes said on 'The Good, The Bad and The Football'. He explained he had messaged Carrick directly to apologise, and Carrick confirmed he was not upset.
Scholes noted that Carrick's side had been securing results despite not playing well, comparing it to Sir Alex Ferguson's adage that teams need fortune to thrive. Third-placed United's victory over Villa opened a three-point gap over their opponents and increased distance from Liverpool and Chelsea.
Carrick reflected on the match, saying he was content at half-time during a tight goalless first half. Goals from Casemiro, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko secured the win before Villa's late consolation. 'In the second half, we had the players to make the difference,' Carrick said.
