Manchester United's 7-0 win over Barnsley in the Carabao Cup. © Twitter (@_mayorz16)
Manchester United showcased their dominance at Old Trafford with a 7-0 victory over Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup. Erik ten Hag’s side, filled with regular starters and new faces, made light work of their League One opposition. Braces from Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Christian Eriksen, and a penalty from Antony sealed the emphatic win, marking United’s most significant victory under Ten Hag’s reign.
Rashford and Garnacho Lead the Charge
Manchester United asserted control from the first whistle, with Rashford and Garnacho leading the attack. Rashford’s speed and precision proved too much for Barnsley’s defense, while Garnacho’s flair and creativity opened up opportunities. Both players found the back of the net twice, much to the delight of the Old Trafford crowd. Their performances highlighted their importance to Ten Hag’s attacking options this season.
Eriksen and Antony Add to the Scoreline
Christian Eriksen, known for his composure in midfield, also contributed with two goals of his own. The Danish playmaker’s ability to control and dictate the pace was evident as he seamlessly linked play between defense and attack. Antony added the final touch with a penalty, rounding off a near-perfect night for the Red Devils. This commanding win gave fans a glimpse of United’s depth and attacking prowess.
Debuts for Ugarte and Collyer
Ten Hag made eight changes to his starting lineup, giving new signing Manuel Ugarte and academy product Toby Collyer opportunities. Both players impressed in their roles, though Collyer, playing as a makeshift left-back, was targeted by Barnsley at times during the first half. Despite conceding a few free-kicks, the young midfielder adapted well and showed promise for future appearances in the first team.
Ten Hag’s Biggest Win Yet
This 7-0 demolition of Barnsley eclipsed Ten Hag’s previous best results since taking over Manchester United in 2022. It surpassed notable victories such as the 4-1 wins over Real Betis in the Europa League and Chelsea in the Premier League. The Dutch manager will be pleased with his side’s performance as they continue their quest for silverware in what promises to be a challenging season.
