Brazilian says “demands are high” but vows team are ready to live up to them
Manchester United players are fully behind interim coach Michael Carrick and believe he knows how to win, according to Matheus Cunha.
Carrick was appointed interim coach until the end of the season after Ruben Amorim was sacked and Darren Fletcher was caretaker for two games. The 44-year-old’s first task was to take charge against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, and he did it in spectacular fashion, United coming out 2-0 winners in a game they controlled from start to finish.
Cunha said the squad were “still getting to know Carrick” but made clear his status in the eyes of the players.
“He’s a highly respected name, not only at United, but in the Premier League as well,” said Cunha. “He’s written his history here in the most positive way possible and brings with him a winning mentality worthy of the club. He knows the path to victory.”
The victory over City allowed United to gain valuable three points to go fifth in the Premier League, as they continue to pursue Champions League qualification with 16 games left to play. But it also provided lift off and showed that the team could still salvage a season that has had so many negatives.
“I think, considering the whole context, it was the most important victory since I arrived at United,” Cunha said. “We know the weight of the match and the quality of the opponent.
“It’s one of the toughest games in England. But when you go onto the pitch representing a club the size of Manchester United, you always have to give your best, especially on days like these.
“The demands are high and we have to live up to them. I’m happy to have helped with an assist, but even happier with the three points. May this be the beginning of a new cycle for our team.
“Now we have until the end of the season playing only the league and our goal is to return to the Champions League. It only depends on us and we will give our best.”
