Manchester United coach Michael Carrick has maintained that he felt no personal relief following his side’s dramatic 3-2 Champions League win over Roma, stating that his only emotion was pride in a group of players who care deeply.

At Old Trafford, United came from behind to end a lengthy winless run, as Matheus Cunha scored twice during a frantic late spell before being sent off, and academy graduate Shea Lacey delivered the decisive assists after coming off the bench.

According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, writing on X on Wednesday, Carrick was clear when asked whether the result had brought a sense of relief.

“Genuinely no. I didn’t feel relief. It was more that I was genuinely pleased for the players. I know how much they care. I know what they give. It was more about seeing everybody and the feeling that we can generate when we do things right!”

The manager had special praise for Lacey, who came on with United trailing and immediately lifted the team.

“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 onto the pitch. I am so happy.”

Reflecting on Cunha’s all-action performance, which ended with 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.”

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