'He knows the path to victory' – Cunha optimistic of winning 'cycle' under Carrick

Matheus Cunha believes Manchester United can string together a winning run under Michael Carrick, who "knows the path to victory", according to the Brazilian.

Carrick was named as United's caretaker manager last week and led the team to a deserved 2-0 win over Manchester City in his first game back in charge on Saturday.

The former midfielder remains unbeaten as United manager (P4, W3 D1), having previously taken over for three games following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's departure in November 2021.

That victory ended a run of four games without a win for the Red Devils, with Ruben Amorim drawing his final two matches in charge before Darren Fletcher, as interim boss, oversaw a draw and an FA Cup third-round exit against Brighton.

But Cunha believes there is reason for optimism at Old Trafford, where Carrick won 12 major trophies across his 12 years as a player.

"We're still getting to know Carrick," Cunha said, as reported in Globoesporte.

"He's a highly respected name, not only at United, but in the Premier League as well.

"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.

"I think, considering the whole context, it [the derby victory] was the most important victory since I arrived at United. 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."

United are currently fifth in the Premier League table, just one point behind Liverpool, who are directly above them.

The Red Devils are given just a 2.4% chance of finishing in the top four this term by the Opta supercomputer, but Cunha hopes they can achieve their aim of clinching Champions League qualification.

"Now we have until the end of the season playing only the league, and our goal is to return to the Champions League," Cunha added.

"It only depends on us, and we will give our best."