Cunha Urges United to Make Carrick Permanent Manager After Liverpool Win Secures Champions League Spot

Key facts

• Matheus Cunha scored the opening goal in Manchester United's 3-2 win over Liverpool on Sunday.
• The victory secured United's place in next season's Champions League.
• Cunha missed the previous match against Brentford due to a hip flexor injury but returned to training on Thursday.
• United have won 10 and lost 2 of 14 games under interim manager Michael Carrick.
• Cunha has eight goals this season and four goal contributions in his last six league appearances.
• United need two points from their final four games to guarantee a top-five finish and Champions League qualification.
• Cunha has also scored against Arsenal and Chelsea this season.

Cunha's Goal Seals Champions League Return

Matheus Cunha scored the opening goal as Manchester United defeated Liverpool 3-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday, a result that guaranteed the club’s place in next season’s Champions League. The Brazilian forward, who has now scored against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool this season, described the competition as incomplete without United’s presence. “It's one of the biggest privileges I have to play at this club and we know the goal of the season is to be there,” he said. “I think Champions League without this club is not the same competition, and this club without Champions League is not the same club.”

Carrick's 'Magic' Revives Ferguson Era

Cunha has become the latest United player to publicly endorse interim manager Michael Carrick for the permanent role, praising his ability to channel the spirit of Sir Alex Ferguson. “I don't think it's in my hands. But what he did, he's full of confidence in the group. How he teaches everyone is amazing,” Cunha said. “I think he has the magic with like these Ferguson times, these kinds of things, then he comes and brings [it] to us. Teach us how it was, and to be part of everything, then he did this, it's amazing, he's a pleasure, and then of course I think he deserves it.” Under Carrick, United have won 10 and lost just 2 of 14 matches, a run that has transformed their season.

Injury Scare Overcome Ahead of Liverpool Clash

Cunha missed United’s 2-1 win over Brentford on Monday due to a sore hip flexor, raising doubts about his availability for the Liverpool match. However, the 26-year-old returned to full group training on Thursday at Carrington, and Carrick is expected to provide an update on his fitness in his Friday press conference. The former Wolves forward was an unused substitute against Brentford but watched from the stands as goals from Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko secured three points. His return is a significant boost for United, who could seal a top-five finish with two points from their remaining four games.

A Habit of Scoring in Big Games

Cunha has developed a reputation for delivering in high-stakes matches, a trait his friends have noticed. “These kind of games are a dream to play and then score in this kinds of games... My friends play these kind of games with me every single time. They say, 'I need to bet on you because you love this' and I said, ‘Don't bet, please!’” he explained. His goal against Liverpool was his eighth of the season, and he has registered four goal contributions in his last six league appearances. United also have the chance to complete their first league double over Liverpool since 2016, having won at Anfield in October.

What Comes Next for United and Carrick

The club is expected to make a decision on Ruben Amorim’s permanent successor at the end of the season, but Carrick’s impressive record has made him a strong candidate. Cunha’s public backing adds to growing support from within the squad. United need just two points from their final four matches to guarantee a top-five finish and Champions League qualification. With Cunha back in contention, the team will look to build on their momentum and secure a strong finish to the campaign.

The bottom line

• Matheus Cunha scored the opening goal in United's 3-2 win over Liverpool, securing Champions League qualification.
• Cunha has publicly endorsed Michael Carrick for the permanent manager role, citing his 'magic' reminiscent of Sir Alex Ferguson.
• Cunha missed the Brentford match with a hip flexor injury but returned to training ahead of the Liverpool game.
• United have won 10 of 14 matches under Carrick, needing two points from four games to confirm a top-five finish.
• Cunha has scored against Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool this season, with eight goals overall.
• United can complete their first league double over Liverpool since 2016 with a win on Sunday.