An insider has explained how one exciting starlet at Manchester United blew away Matheus Cunha in training this week.
Michael Carrick led his first training session as Manchester United head coach on Wednesday, as preparations continued for Saturday’s Manchester derby against City.
United remain in search of their first win of 2026 ahead of the Old Trafford showdown with their local rivals. The opening weeks of the year have proved challenging, with a 1–1 draw against 16th-placed Leeds United followed by a 2–2 stalemate with 19th-placed Burnley, before a home FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton. That difficult spell also saw the departure of head coach Ruben Amorim.
In the build-up to the derby, United confirmed Carrick’s appointment as head coach until the end of the season, with the clash against Manchester City set to be his first game in charge.
Carrick is no stranger to the role, having previously taken interim charge in November 2021, when he oversaw victories against Arsenal and Villarreal and earned a creditable 1–1 draw with then-league leaders Chelsea.
United starlet blew Cunha away in training
United’s squad had Monday and Tuesday off while Carrick’s appointment was being finalised and their first session came on Wednesday morning.
They will be working hard ahead of the clash with Pep Guardiola’s side and club reporter Adam Marshall was watching on during that training session.
He explained how Matheus Cunha was left impressed by the finishing of 18-year-old starlet Shea Lacey, who has recently emerged as a serious first-team option.
“A shooting competition was arranged. Three goals in a row were the aim, as those involved worked in pairs,” Marshall wrote.
“Matheus Cunha was particularly effusive about one strike from his partner, Lacey, but a combination of outstanding saves and the woodwork ensured the game became more and more competitive, and faster!”
Lacey will get chances under Carrick
Unfortunately, Lacey will not be available for the Manchester derby after his red card in the Emirates FA Cup third-round defeat against Brighton.
But the youngster will continue to get chances under Carrick this season, with the new head coach outlining how important youth development is to him.
“I’ve absolutely love it,” he said of seeing young players being involved in the team. “Every young player needs a chance, it’s up to them to earn the opportunity but it’s always something I’ve been passionate about.
“I think this club is about producing young players and having alignment with the academy, and a pathway. Understanding what it means and helping the young players develop.”
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