RismadarVoice Reporters
November 4, 2026
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has expressed pride in his players following their dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Roma in the UEFA Champions League, insisting he felt satisfaction rather than personal relief after the result.
United overturned a two-goal deficit at Old Trafford on Tuesday night to end a nine-match winless run, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice after Bruno Fernandes had begun the recovery from the penalty spot.
Roma established a 2-0 lead in the first half through Matias Soulé and Donyell Malen, leaving the hosts facing another disappointing European result.
However, Fernandes converted a retaken penalty in the 58th minute before Cunha struck twice in the closing stages to complete the turnaround.
Academy graduate Shea Lacey, introduced as a substitute, provided the decisive pass for Cunha’s winning goal in the 86th minute.
The Brazilian forward was subsequently sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Roma defender Leonardo Balerdi.
Speaking after the match, Carrick dismissed suggestions that the victory had brought him personal relief amid growing scrutiny of United’s performances.
He explained that his greatest satisfaction came from seeing the players’ determination rewarded after a difficult period.
Carrick praised the squad’s response to their first-half difficulties, highlighting their willingness to remain positive despite missed opportunities.
The manager also commended Lacey for his contribution, describing the youngster as a confident and talented player whose introduction lifted the team.
He was particularly pleased with Lacey’s defensive commitment, noting that the academy graduate contributed beyond his attacking responsibilities.
Carrick also praised Cunha’s attacking performance but expressed disappointment over the forward’s late dismissal.
He said the Brazilian’s movement and determination had helped transform United’s attacking play during the second half.
Cunha, meanwhile, acknowledged Lacey’s contribution, praising the quality of the pass that created his winning goal.
The victory provided a welcome boost for United following a prolonged period of disappointing results across domestic and European competitions.
However, Carrick cautioned against excessive celebrations, stressing that the team must build on the performance rather than regard one victory as a complete turnaround.
United will now turn their attention to Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Aston Villa as they seek to establish greater consistency.
For Carrick, the result demonstrated the importance of collective determination, tactical adjustments and opportunities for young players within the squad.
