Matheus Cunha Endorses Michael Carrick as Manchester United Head Coach
Matheus Cunha, a key player for Manchester United, has expressed his belief that Michael Carrick deserves to continue as the club’s head coach. He credits Carrick with bringing back some of the magic associated with Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary manager who once led the Red Devils to great success.
Carrick was appointed as the interim manager following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January, tasked with stabilizing the team and securing a place in the Champions League. Despite the challenges, Carrick has exceeded expectations, leading the team to a 3-2 victory over Liverpool on Sunday. This win secured their spot in European football’s top competition with three games remaining.
Ferguson was not present at the match, having been hospitalized as a precaution after feeling unwell. However, Cunha noticed the impact of the managerial legend during the game, which was overseen by one of his former players.
When asked if he would like Carrick to remain as head coach next season, Cunha responded positively: “Yeah, yeah, honestly, I think if we need to say (it). I don’t think it’s in my hands. But what he did, he’s full of confidence in the group and, look, I sat on the bench with him but how he teaches everyone is amazing.”
“He has like the magic with these Ferguson times, these kinds of things. Then he come and bring to us, teach us how it was. And, yeah, to be part of everything that he did is a pleasure, and then of course I think he deserves it.”
Carrick’s connection with Manchester United played a crucial role in his appointment for the remainder of the season. The club wanted a manager who understood the club’s culture to avoid any issues during the transition period, allowing director of football Jason Wilcox time to search for a long-term replacement for Amorim.
Carrick has proven himself to be the right choice, with rejuvenated player Kobbie Mainoo stating that the players would die for the head coach after securing Champions League qualification on Sunday.
Cunha added: “It’s one of the biggest privileges I have to play at this club and we know the goal for the season is to be there. I think Champions League without this club is not the same competition, and this club without Champions League is not the same club. To be part of this, to be one of the guys. When we come in, I think there were a lot of doubts about how the club will come back. I’m so happy to be part of this.”
Cunha acknowledges that United cannot rest on their laurels and must continue fighting for the kind of titles they won during Carrick’s time under Ferguson. Casemiro, who has been a key player for the club, will not be there to take that next step as the Brazil international will leave this summer when his contract expires.
However, Cunha joked that he hasn’t given up on persuading Casemiro to stay. “To have this guy in the dressing room is a privilege,” he said. “We will miss (him) so much. We don’t know in the end how it is with his contract and then of course everyone hopes there’s a little bit more!”
Cunha laughed and continued with a smile: “Of course, of course. I know it’s harder than we talked about, but, yeah, in the end, you never know, eh? Let’s go.”
