The victory over 10-man Spurs on Saturday (07.02.26) made it four consecutive wins under interim head coach Carrick, who replaced Ruben Amorim last month, and lifted United firmly into the UEFA Champions League qualification places as momentum continues to build.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Fernandes admitted United were not at their best but suggested results have helped change the mood around the squad.
He said: “We’ve had moments when we weren’t great, and it was still like this. When we win games, everything looks brighter. This is football. Football changes from one game to another.”
United took the lead through Bryan Mbeumo in the first half before Fernandes sealed the win late on, with Spurs reduced to 10 men after captain Cristian Romero was sent off for a reckless challenge on Casemiro.
The result moved United to within two points of third-placed Aston Villa.
Fernandes was asked what Carrick has brought since taking charge and pointed to a clear shift in responsibility and confidence among the players.
He said: “I think Michael came in with the right idea of giving the players the freedom to take responsibility on the pitch to do the decisions that were needed.”
The midfielder also referenced Carrick’s previous spell as United’s caretaker manager in 2021 and suggested their past conversations have helped shape his approach this time around.
He said: “I think he remembers what I told him the last time he was manager. I think Michael could be a great manager, and he’s just shown it.”
Carrick - a former United midfielder who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League during his playing career at the club - has overseen notable wins against Manchester City and Arsenal, alongside a dramatic late victory over Fulham, since stepping into the role.
Fernandes stressed that Carrick’s deep understanding of the club has been vital during a period of transition.
He said: “We hope we can help him even more, so everyone can see we are good players. That’s why we are at Man United.
He added: “I think everyone understands the pressure of playing for this club. Everyone knows the expectations around it. Michael has won everything here, he knows what it means for these fans and how much is needed to win at this football club.”
