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Matheus Cunha reveals how Michael Carrick lifted him

Originally posted on HITC | By Adnan Riaz | Last updated Feb 14, 2026 9:22 AM ET

Matheus Cunha has spoken about his relationship with Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick and highlighted a key change he’s noticed at the club.

The 26-year-old Brazilian forward has scored six goals and provided two assists in his first season at Old Trafford following his move from Wolves last summer.

As the 2025-26 campaign has gone on, Cunha’s confidence has visibly grown, and he’s become an important part of Manchester United’s attack.

Carrick didn’t start Cunha in his first two matches as manager, opting instead for other options in the forward line. The Brazilian had to wait for another chance to prove himself under the new boss.

In those games against Manchester City and Arsenal, Carrick picked Danish wing-back Patrick Dorgu to fill the role on the left wing. Dorgu was seen as a better fit for what Carrick wanted tactically at the time.

Cunha got back into the starting XI after an injury sidelined Dorgu, giving him another opportunity to make his case under Carrick’s leadership.

How Michael Carrick has changed things at Man Utd, according to Matheus Cunha

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Even in those early games against Manchester City and Arsenal, Cunha still found a way to make an impact off the bench, providing an assist in the 2-0 win over City and scoring the winner in a 3-2 victory at the Emirates.

“It’s beautiful,” he said.

Cunha spoke to Premier League’s YouTube channel about how interim head coach Carrick has ‘improved’ his playing style since he replaced Ruben Amorim.

“It’s beautiful what he say to us. He has had so many successful links with the club. “He came into my office after two games where I didn’t play. He talked with me, showed me my stats and explained everything very well.

“I think that made my confidence stronger.”

How Carrick’s approach has changed the mood around Manchester United

Manchester United look like a different side under Carrick, who’s been given the role on an interim basis until the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

Since Ruben Amorim was let go last month, United have picked up four wins from five matches under Carrick’s guidance.

Carrick came close to suffering his first loss on Tuesday, but Benjamin Sesko stepped up late to save a point against West Ham at the London Stadium.

The lift in form since Carrick took over has pushed United into the Premier League’s top four, giving fans renewed hope for a strong finish to the season.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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