When Matheus Cunha scored the opening goal against Liverpool on Sunday, he wasn't just celebrating a crucial strike—he was witnessing something special unfolding at Old Trafford. The Brazilian forward has boldly compared interim manager Michael Carrick to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, and after Manchester United's 3-2 victory secured their return to the Champions League, it's easy to see why.
The Red Devils had been absent from Europe's elite competition for two seasons, but Carrick's arrival in January changed everything. Taking over from Ruben Amorim, the 44-year-old has transformed the squad's fortunes, winning 10 of his 14 matches across all competitions. The latest triumph against Liverpool, sealed by teenager Kobbie Mainoo's decisive goal, wasn't just another win—it was a statement that United are back where they belong.
"When Michael came, he came with magic! Sir Alex Ferguson vibes," Cunha told reporters after the match. "He talks so much about his team, the conquering team. This feeling comes to us. We feel so happy with the information, we focus so hard to reach the objective. At the end of the day, this is just the start of a beautiful beginning!"
That magic has translated into results against some of the Premier League's biggest names. Under Carrick's guidance, United have defeated Arsenal, Manchester City, Aston Villa, Chelsea, and now Liverpool—a run that has made them just the 12th team to secure Champions League qualification for next season.
For a club that prides itself on tradition and excellence, the parallels to Ferguson's era are impossible to ignore. Carrick himself seems unfazed by the pressure, admitting the role feels "pretty natural" despite its challenges. "It's been a good run. We've beaten some very, very good teams and it's been challenging," he said. "I love doing what I'm doing. It's a great position for me to be in."
With the season approaching its climax, United have yet to confirm whether Carrick will remain beyond this campaign. But if the "Ferguson vibes" continue, the decision might already be made for them. For fans who have waited two years for Champions League nights to return to Old Trafford, this feels like more than just a beginning—it feels like a revival.