Michael Carrick has brought the feel-good factor back to Manchester United, just days after being appointed as head coach.
Manchester United are back in the win column after beating Manchester City at home, getting revenge for the 3-0 thrashing at the Etihad in September.
While United won the derby 2-0, it was the heaviest expected goals defeat of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City career.
Michael Carrick’s name was sung from the Stretford End, as he admitted being proud of United’s performance, praising a number of players.
Kobbie Mainoo was hailed by Carrick, while the head coach also heaped praise on another player.
WHO was your man of the match for Manchester United vs City?
Let us know who you picked…
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Michael Carrick praises Matheus Cunha’s performance from the bench
When Carrick’s starting line-up was announced, the most notable exclusion was Matheus Cunha, with the Brazilian benched, likely in favour of quicker, more transition friendly options.
Cunha was brought on in the 71st minute, replacing goalscorer Bryan Mbeumo, and he had an impressive cameo.
Michael Carrick points at Matheus Cunha after Manchester United win.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
More United News
Cunha assisted Patrick Dorgu’s goal and after the game, speaking with beIN Sports, Carrick praised his number 10.
“Matheus coming on made a big difference for us, which is what I’m looking for, so delighted with that.”
This is an expert moment from Carrick in terms of man management, with Cunha surely annoyed not to have started, but he will have been made to feel important here.
What do you think Sir Jim Ratcliffe is thinking about Man Utd’s manager change right now?!
Even Sir Jim was off his seat!
Ratciffe
Getty Images
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Cunha has earned Manchester United starting berth against Arsenal
In recent weeks, Cunha has been criticised for selfish play, and rightfully so, with the 26-year-old almost resorting to the hero football he played at Wolves.
But against City, Cunha put in a great display.
He was excellent going forward, with the assist being really good as he did well to squeeze the cross in, while he could have had a second if not for a tight offside which looked within the five centimetre lee-way.
Cunha also stepped up defensively with four duels won and also some big interventions in the United penalty area.
Against Arsenal, we would put Cunha up front, with Mbeumo on the right, assuming Mikel Arteta will allow United more possession and so the Brazilian will be key in breaking down the defence.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox