As the Premier League title race heats up in 2026, the resurgence of Manchester United under Michael Carrick has become the story of the season. Following a string of high-octane victories—including a tactical masterclass against Manchester City—the Red Devils have surged back into Champions League contention.
However, Arsenal legend and Sky Sports pundit Thierry Henry isn’t fully buying the hype just yet. During a recent segment on Monday Night Football, Henry dropped a bombshell analysis on what is holding United back from being true title contenders.
The Verdict: “One Player Must Go”
Henry, never one to shy away from a controversial take, admitted he is impressed by the “Carrick Revolution” but insists the squad has a “weak link” that could derail their top-four ambitions.
While many fans have focused on the rejuvenation of players like Kobbie Mainoo and the tactical shift to a back four, Henry pointed his finger at a specific defensive liability: Leny Yoro.
> “I believe Man United will finish top four this season and possibly challenge for the league, but only if Michael Carrick starts benching him,” Henry stated. “Leny Yoro has the talent, but at this level, his lack of desire to track back and his habit of looking for the linesman instead of playing to the whistle is costing them.”
>
Why Henry is Calling for the Drop
Henry’s critique follows United’s recent struggles in transition, most notably during their 4-1 collapse against Newcastle earlier in the season and nervy moments in recent wins. According to Henry:
* The “Linesman” Habit: Henry mocked Yoro for “begging for offsides” while goals are being scored, suggesting a lack of focus.
* Tactical Exposure: Under Carrick’s more expansive 4-2-3-1 or 3-2-4-1 hybrid system, the center-backs are often left in 1-on-1 situations. Henry argues Yoro’s positioning isn’t elite enough yet to survive that exposure.
* Alternative Options: With Harry Maguire showing a resurgence in form and the potential return of experienced heads, Henry believes a “no-nonsense” approach is required for the final stretch of the season.
The “Carrick Effect” vs. The Henry Warning
Since Michael Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim as interim boss, Manchester United has looked like a different beast. Carrick has brought a “humane touch” back to Carrington, even changing recovery schedules to give players more rest—a move that has clearly paid off in their high-energy performances.
| Statutory Metric | Under Amorim (Early 25/26) | Under Carrick (Last 4 Games) |
|—|—|—|
| Win Rate | 42% | 100% |
| Goals Per Game | 1.1 | 2.5 |
| Clean Sheets | 1 | 2 |
Despite the stats, Henry warns that “honeymoon phases” end the moment a defensive error costs a team a Champions League spot. He believes Carrick must be “cruel” to be kind, echoing sentiments from other pundits like Roy Keane, who suggests that the board needs to see if Carrick can make the big, unpopular personnel calls.
The Path to the Top Four
United currently sits 5th, trailing just a point behind Liverpool. With a massive clash against Tottenham Hotspur looming this weekend, the pressure is on. If Carrick sticks with Yoro and the Frenchman delivers a flawless performance, Henry might have to eat his words. But if the defense leaks, the Arsenal legend’s prediction will look prophetic.
The big question remains: Does Michael Carrick have the “managerial ruthlessness” to drop a big-money signing for the sake of the collective?
Do you agree with Thierry Henry? Is Leny Yoro the “weak link,” or is Henry being too harsh on the youngster?
About The Author
