UCL: No relief, just pride after United win — Carrick

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick. Photo: Getty Images

Man United coach, Michael Carrick, has insisted he felt no personal relief after Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over Roma, saying his only emotion was pride in a group of players who care deeply.

United fought back from behind at Old Trafford to end a long winless run, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice in a frantic late spell before being sent off, and academy product Shea Lacey providing the decisive assists after coming off the bench.

As reported by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X on Wednesday, asked whether the result brought a sense of relief, Carrick was clear. “Genuinely no. I didn’t feel relief. It was more, I was genuinely pleased for the players. I know how much they care. I know what they give. It was just more seeing everybody and the feeling that we can generate when we do things right!”

The manager reserved special praise for Lacey, who entered the game with United trailing and immediately lifted the side.

“He’s got great ability. That glint in his eyes and he plays with a bit of mischief. He was desperate to do well. I was just as happy seeing him defend as a right back! He gave everyone a lift coming on the pitch. I am so happy.”

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On Cunha’s all-action display, which ended in a red card, Carrick added: “I was a bit disappointed with how it finished but it just shows how much he cares and he’s willing to do when he’s in that frame of mind. When he’s in that mood, and he plays like that… that’s what we want him here.”

Cunha himself highlighted Lacey’s contribution:

“What an unbelievable pass from Shea! It’s beautiful when you have an academy player that comes and has a great impact in the game. When I saw the ball going, to be honest, I didn’t believe it, the comeback!”

The result leaves United with a much-needed boost in the Champions League.

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