Bruno Fernandes has paid an emphatic tribute to Michael Carrick, insisting he always believed the former Manchester United midfielder had the qualities to become an elite manager.

Carrick has overseen a striking upturn in form since stepping into the dugout at Old Trafford, guiding United to four consecutive Premier League victories and reigniting their push for a return to the Champions League. The latest win, a controlled 2-0 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur, extended his perfect start and further strengthened his claim to the job on a permanent basis.

United capitalised after Spurs captain Cristian Romero was sent off before the half-hour mark, with Bryan Mbeumo opening the scoring and Fernandes sealing the result late on. The captain’s composed finish in the 81st minute marked his 200th goal involvement for the club, underlining his enduring influence in a side that suddenly looks revitalised.

For Fernandes, the transformation under Carrick is no surprise. The Portugal international highlighted the manager’s deep understanding of the club and its demands, forged during a decorated playing career in which he won every major honour in United colours.

“Michael has won everything here and he knows what it means for these fans, what it means for the club to win and how much is needed to win at this football club. I think that adds something special to the team,” Fernandes told TNT Sports, stressing that Carrick’s authority comes as much from his experience as from his tactical ideas.

Carrick was initially appointed on a short-term basis after the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, having previously served a brief interim spell in 2021. This time, however, his impact has been more profound. United have strung together four straight league wins for the first time in two years, climbing to fourth in the table and already surpassing last season’s total of 42 points.

Fernandes said Carrick’s approach has empowered the dressing room. “I think Michael came in with the right ideas of giving the players the responsibility. He’s very good with the words. I was sure that Michael could be a great manager, and he’s just showing it.”

United are out of both domestic cups, but with momentum restored and Champions League qualification now within reach, Carrick’s audition for the long-term role is gathering compelling evidence.