In a stunning turnaround that has breathed new life into Old Trafford, Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha has credited interim boss Michael Carrick with bringing back the "magic" of the Sir Alex Ferguson era. With Champions League qualification secured and momentum building, the Red Devils are rediscovering their winning identity—and Carrick is at the heart of it all.
Cunha, who opened the scoring in United's crucial 3-2 victory over Liverpool, believes Carrick's unique blend of modern coaching and old-school wisdom is exactly what the club needs. "How he teaches everyone is amazing," Cunha said. "He has the magic from the Ferguson times. He brings it to us, teaches us what it means to be part of everything. It's a pleasure to work with him."
Since taking over in January following Ruben Amorim's dismissal, Carrick has engineered 10 wins in 14 matches—a record that has put him in pole position for the full-time job. The 44-year-old, who won five Premier League titles and a Champions League under Ferguson, has reconnected the squad with the club's trophy-laden past while delivering results on the pitch.
The victory over Liverpool ensured Champions League football returns to Old Trafford next season, a goal that seemed ambitious when football director Jason Wilcox first set it. But Carrick's side has exceeded expectations, needing just four more points to secure a top-three finish—a feat United has managed only five times since Ferguson retired in 2013.
"It's one of the biggest privileges to play at this club," Cunha added. "The Champions League without this club isn't the same competition, and this club without the Champions League isn't the same club. But it's not just about Europe—we need to fight for titles. This is the first step, and we can come much stronger next season."
As United prepare for a summer of change, with Brazilian teammate Casemiro reportedly on his way out, Carrick has made it clear there's no time to rest. The squad remains focused on finishing as high as possible, with the chance to finish fewer than 12 points behind the champions for the first time since 2020-21. For fans and players alike, the Ferguson magic might just be back.