Manchester United face bitter rivals Liverpool in a huge showdown on Sunday and they could be boosted by the return of Matheus Cunha, who missed the win over Brentford
Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha
Matheus Cunha is in contention to feature against Liverpool this weekend(Image: Getty)
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Manchester United are optimistic that Matheus Cunha could feature in the squad to face Liverpool on Sunday after the forward returned to training at Carrington this week.
The Brazilian sat out Monday's victory over Brentford at Old Trafford with a hip flexor complaint, but he is now in contention to return for what promises to be a blockbuster fixture.
Luke Shaw also hobbled out of the win against the Bees — a result that moved United to within one victory of securing a return to the Champions League. Carrick offered no specific update on the left-back, but did confirm the squad was in good health, with Matthijs de Ligt the only player still sidelined with a back issue.
"Matheus has done a little bit of work so we're hopeful. We're not sure, but we're hopeful. Mata still a bit further and not involved in the game," said Carrick, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The 44 year old will be taking the dugout for his first United clash against Liverpool, with his side chasing a Premier League double over Arne Slot's outfit following a 2-1 triumph at Anfield earlier in the campaign.
Carrick is relishing the occasion, admitting that as a player it was always the fixture he'd seek out first — and one he thoroughly enjoyed competing in. The match shapes up as a third-versus-fourth showdown heading into the weekend, with United holding a three-point cushion.
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick speaks with Matheus Cunha during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Aston Villa at Old Trafford on March 15, 2026 in Manchester, England.
Michael Carrick gave an update on Cunha during his press conference on Friday(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
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"One of my favourite games, without doubt," he said. "It's a standout game, there are big games and big rivalries we have with other teams but this is right up there. The history, ups and downs, excitement, entertainment and emotion makes it a really special game.
"It shows the improvements of the group and getting stronger to be coming into this game in such a good position. We're fully aware of the situation in the league and how close it is. It's a one-off game, they're a good team, they won the league this [last] year. We're treating it as a one-off game and the league position is what it is."
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