Matheus Cunha Challenges Narrative on Manchester United's Turnaround Under Michael Carrick
Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha has offered a nuanced perspective on the club's recent resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick, suggesting that predecessor Ruben Amorim's contributions have been unfairly overlooked. United have enjoyed a strong run of form, winning four and drawing one of their five matches since Carrick took charge in mid-January, but Cunha insists the story is more complex than a simple managerial change.
The Amorim Era: A Foundation for Success?
Ruben Amorim was dismissed on January 5 following a public outburst after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United. During his 14-month tenure, the Portuguese coach oversaw 24 victories in 63 games, with United finishing 15th in the Premier League and losing the Europa League final in his debut season. Amorim's tactical approach, centered on a 3-4-2-1 formation, drew criticism as the team struggled for consistency.
In contrast, Michael Carrick has implemented a 4-2-3-1 system, recalling midfielder Kobbie Mainoo from the bench and securing notable wins against Manchester City and Arsenal. This shift has earned Carrick widespread praise for revitalising the squad's morale and performance.
Cunha's Defence of Amorim's Legacy
However, Matheus Cunha, who joined United in a £62.5 million move from Wolves last summer, believes Amorim played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the current success. In an interview with DAZN, the Brazilian forward expressed gratitude towards his former manager, stating that many new players were attracted to the club because of Amorim's influence.
'I've always been very grateful for everything Ruben did,' Cunha said. 'I think it's very easy, when things change, to see the past as only problems, but it's quite the opposite; he was an incredible person. Many new players came because of him, so I think he also plays a big part in the success we are having now.'
Tactical Debate Dismissed as 'Misleading'
Cunha, who has thrived under Carrick with goals and assists in key victories, argued that the focus on tactical changes has been exaggerated. He suggested that the pressure on Amorim's system overshadowed the broader context of the team's play.
'The pressure for that tactic to work was so great that we forgot how simple the overall context was and focused too much on the negative,' Cunha explained. 'But, to be very honest, I think the numbers of football is very misleading. We attack in various ways and end up defending with the formation that everyone says is Ruben's.'
Current Standings and Future Prospects
Manchester United currently sit fourth in the Premier League, one point ahead of Chelsea, following a recent 1-1 draw with West Ham. The team is preparing for an upcoming match against Everton, with Carrick's interim contract set to expire at the end of the season. Despite this, former United legend Wayne Rooney has endorsed Carrick for the permanent role, citing his calming influence and deep understanding of the club.
'We’ve been there and tried different managers – (Jose) Mourinho, (Louis) van Gaal, (Erik) ten Hag and (Ruben) Amorim – and for me Carrick makes sense. Not because we’ve played together and we’re friends, but because he is a real calming influence,' Rooney commented on The Overlap's Fan Debate. 'Having someone there who knows the club and cares for the club makes a big difference. Michael is managing the whole squad and managing them well.'
As United continue their campaign, Cunha's insights highlight the ongoing debate over managerial credit and the complexities behind football transformations, urging fans and pundits to look beyond simplistic narratives.
