Carrick refutes Cunha’s claim of Manchester United's energy levels

Michael Carrick rejected Matheus Cunha’s assertion that Manchester United lacked energy during their 1-1 draw with Fulham on September 20, 2026. The match statistics indicated that Fulham ran 6.6 kilometers more than United, which led Cunha, the goal scorer for United, to criticize the performance of his team. After a lackluster start to the second half, which followed a 0-0 halftime score, Fulham capitalized on a Lisandro Martínez own goal in the 63rd minute. "In the beginning of the second half, Fulham put in more energy than us and we cannot accept this," Cunha stated.

The draw was not the desired outcome for Carrick or United, especially following a recent defeat to Manchester City in the derby and an exit from the Carabao Cup against Brighton, both of which took place at Old Trafford. Nevertheless, Carrick emphasized the positive aspects of his team's performance, highlighting their fighting spirit as they pushed for an equalizer. Cunha’s long-range effort in the 89th minute deflected off Fulham defender David Affengruber, catching goalkeeper Bernd Leno off guard and allowing United to salvage a point.

Carrick did not concur with Cunha's remarks regarding their collective energy levels, expressing satisfaction with how the team finished the game. "I don’t think that’s an issue," he said, noting the team’s perseverance after going behind and their ability to maintain their composure and purpose. "We finished on a positive, which is a small step for us... We came to take three points but at least we’ve taken something to build on moving forward."

Concerns were raised by a section of United supporters who booed Carrick’s decision to substitute Kobbie Mainoo in the 80th minute, replacing him with Mason Mount. Carrick acknowledged the emotional reactions during the game but remained unfazed, stating, "There’s always going to be certain reactions when you’re making changes. I understand."

When asked about the mood among fans anticipating a strong season for United, Carrick noted, "It’s still a big season ahead. I understand the frustration. But deflation is certainly not what we have within the club. The players didn’t have that on the pitch today, and that’s what will carry us through the season."

Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa expressed dissatisfaction with officiating decisions during the match, pointing to a questionable free-kick awarded to Harry Maguire just prior to Cunha’s equalizer. Arbeloa claimed that officials appeared biased, suggesting that they did not want to see United lose after their recent derby loss. He later moderated his criticism but still expressed displeasure with the match's officiating. The referee, Peter Bankes, notably did not award a penalty for a handball against Fulham in the 86th minute when a shot from Martínez struck Calvin Bassey's hand.