Manchester United’s performance in the Premier League 2025/2026 has shown a notable upswing since interim manager Michael Carrick took charge in mid-January. The team has captured the attention of fans and pundits alike with a run of four wins and one draw from their last five league matches.
However, while Carrick has received significant praise for this resurgence, striker Matheus Cunha emphasizes that the foundation for Manchester United’s revival was laid by his predecessor, Ruben Amorim. Cunha insists that the current momentum is not solely the result of tactical tweaks but also the groundwork established during Amorim’s tenure.
Amorim’s Departure Amid Pressure
Ruben Amorim was officially dismissed on January 5, shortly after an emotional post-match statement following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United. At that time, United was in sixth place in the league standings.
Amorim’s debut season at Old Trafford was challenging. He guided the team to a 15th-place finish and fell short in the Europa League final. Over 14 months in charge, the Portuguese coach recorded 24 wins in 63 matches. His preferred 3-4-2-1 formation frequently sparked debates among supporters and analysts, particularly regarding its defensive vulnerabilities and adaptability in the Premier League.
Tactical Shift Under Carrick
Under Carrick, United switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, which has revitalized several key players, including Kobbie Mainoo, who previously spent much of his time on the bench. This tactical change has already delivered tangible results, including high-profile victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, restoring confidence within the squad.
As of mid-February, Manchester United sits fourth in the Premier League table, one point ahead of Chelsea, and enjoys a brief respite following a 1-1 draw against West Ham before their upcoming match at Everton.
Cunha Highlights Amorim’s Influence
Despite improved results under Carrick, Cunha, who has contributed with assists against Manchester City and goals against Arsenal and Fulham, insists that the resurgence is not purely tactical. He credits Amorim for shaping the current squad and influencing key transfers, including his own £62.5 million move from Wolves last summer.
“I will always be grateful for everything Ruben did,” Cunha told DAZN. “It’s easy to view the past as problematic when change occurs, but it isn’t like that. He is an incredible individual.”
Cunha adds that many of United’s new signings were motivated by Amorim’s influence and that the current tactical framework still retains similarities with Amorim’s approach.
“The pressure to make these tactics work is immense, but we must see the bigger picture. Honestly, the stats in football can sometimes be misleading. We attack in various ways, and at times, our defensive shape mirrors the systems Ruben implemented,” Cunha explained.
Carrick’s Future at Manchester United
Carrick’s interim contract is set to last until the end of the season, with the club reportedly considering options for a permanent successor to Amorim. Support for Carrick, however, continues to grow, including from club legend Wayne Rooney.
“We’ve tried different managers—Mourinho, Van Gaal, Ten Hag, and Ruben Amorim. For me, Carrick makes sense. Not because we played together, but because he brings a calming influence,” Rooney said during The Overlap Fan Debate.
Rooney added that Carrick’s ability to manage the squad effectively is crucial for restoring the club’s former glory. With momentum continuing to build, Carrick is increasingly viewed as a serious contender for the permanent managerial role, even as Amorim’s strategic foundation remains a key component of Manchester United’s story this season.
Conclusion: Foundation and Progress Hand in Hand
While Michael Carrick has earned recognition for Manchester United’s revival in the Premier League, Matheus Cunha reminds fans that Ruben Amorim’s groundwork played an essential role. The combination of Carrick’s tactical adjustments and Amorim’s prior influence has allowed the team to regain stability and compete at the top of the table.
As United approaches the season’s climax, understanding the contributions of both coaches provides a fuller picture of the club’s resurgence. For Cunha and his teammates, honoring Amorim’s influence is not just about respect—it is a recognition that football success is often built on both legacy and adaptation.
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