Matheus Cunha believes Michael Carrick has the “magic” to reconnect Manchester United with the success of the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Cunha played a key role as Manchester United defeated Liverpool 3-2 at Old Trafford, scoring the opening goal that set the team on course for victory and secured Champions League qualification with three games remaining.
The achievement marks a turnaround that few expected earlier in the season, even after football director Jason Wilcox set a return to Europe’s top competition as a target following the departure of Ruben Amorim in January.
Carrick has overseen 10 wins in 14 matches since taking charge, strengthening his case for the role permanently.
ALSO READ: Man United edge Liverpool 3-2 to secure Champions League spot
The 44-year-old was part of Manchester United’s success under Ferguson, winning five Premier League titles and a Champions League.
Cunha said that the link to the past has helped shape the current squad.
“I sat on the bench with him. How he teaches everyone is amazing. He has the magic with these Ferguson times. Then he comes and brings it to us, teaches us how it was, to be part of everything. Then he did this.
“It’s amazing. He’s a pleasure. Of course, I think he deserves it,” Cun said. ha
Despite securing Champions League football, Carrick has warned his players against complacency as they push to finish the season strongly.
Manchester United still need four points to guarantee a top-three finish, which would be only the fifth time they have achieved that since Ferguson retired in 2013.
They are also on course to finish closer to the eventual champions than in most recent campaigns, with their nearest comparison coming under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the 2020-21 season.
Cunha said playing for Manchester United carries expectations beyond qualification for Europe.
“It’s one of the biggest privileges I have to play at this club,” said Cunha.
“The Champions League without this club is not the same competition, and this club without the Champions League is not the same club.
“But it is not only the Champions League. We need to fight for the titles. This is the first one [step]. We could come much stronger for next season.”
