Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha is optimistic that the team can win a streak under Michael Carrick after the interim coach led the team to a 2-0 victory over Manchester City in his first match as coach.
The 44-year-old took over at Manchester United until the end of the season after the sacking of Ruben Amorim in early January 2026 after 14 months in charge.
"We still know (Michael) Carrick. He is a very respected name, not only at Manchester United, but also in the English League," Cunha said on Globoesporte.
This is the second time Carrick, a former Manchester United player, has been the interim coach of the team after leading the team for three matches in the 2021/2022 season.
Manchester United legend and television commentator Roy Keane is skeptical of Carrick's return, but Cunha is not.
"He (Carrick) has written his history here in the most positive way and brought a winning mentality that this club deserves. He knows the way to victory," said Cunha.
Cunha considers Saturday's result, January 17, 2026, as the most important victory since his arrival at Old Trafford last summer after his £62.5 million transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Brazilian entered as a substitute and provided an assist to Patrick Dorgu in Manchester United's second goal against Manchester City.
"I think, given the whole context, it was the most important victory since I arrived at Manchester United. We know the weight of the game and the quality of the opponent."
"This is one of the hardest games in England. However, when you go out onto the pitch representing a club as big as Manchester United, you always have to give your best, especially on days like this."
"The demands are high and we have to meet them. I'm happy to be able to help with one assist, but I'm even happier with these three points. Hopefully this will be the start of a new cycle for our team," said Cunha.
Manchester United are in fifth place in the English League table, one place and one point behind Liverpool who are in fourth place - holding the last Champions League qualification spot.
Manchester United, who are not playing in Europe this season, were knocked out of the FA Cup earlier this month. So, focusing on pursuing the European path for next season could be the Red Devils' current target.
"Now we are only playing in the league until the end of the season. Our goal is to return to the Champions League. It just depends on us. We will give our best," said Cunha.
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