United’s comeback proves squad fighting for Michael Carrick

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick oversaw a 3‑2 Champions League victory over Roma at Old Trafford, ending a nine‑match winless run; the Red Devils recovered from a 2‑0 deficit, and midfielder Youri Tielemans said the comeback proved the squad are still fighting to keep Carrick in his role.

United looked dead and buried as the Italian side Roma surged into a 2‑0 lead inside 17 minutes, with Matias Soule scoring and Donyell Malan converting a penalty. Utd’s under‑pressure chief Michael Carrick faced intense scrutiny before the match.

The atmosphere turned toxic, with green tennis balls thrown onto the pitch as a protest against the club’s ownership. Green and gold balloons were released as the teams emerged, while chants targeted the Glazer family, minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director of football Jason Wilcox.

£70m summer signing Carlos Baleba limped off with a hamstring injury. Captain Bruno Fernandes sparked hope by converting a twice‑taken penalty.

Second‑half resurgence

Matheus Cunha equalised after Leonardo Balerdi’s error. Four minutes from time the Brazilian drilled home from an acute angle to put United ahead.

Cunha sent off after rescuing United against Roma

Cunha was sent off in stoppage time after receiving two quick‑fire bookings. The first dismissal came for removing his shirt while celebrating the winning goal.

pundit Stephen Warnock said United entered the match as a vulnerable side lacking confidence. He added that the reaction after going 2‑0 down showed the players were fighting for Carrick. Warnock called it a perfect night for Michael Carrick.

Youri Tielemans insisted the fightback proved the players are fully behind Carrick. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he said pressure on Carrick is repaid with a comeback that displays big character and big fight.

Cunha double seals United comeback over Roma

Tielemans said whether the result has saved Carrick’s job is a different question, but the squad will stick behind him and fight for the club. He noted it was United’s first win in ten games, that they kept working, believed and were on the front foot in the second half, pushing Roma into their goal and succeeding.