Michael Carrick admitted that being Manchester United manager feels natural after leading the team to a 3-2 victory over Liverpool, securing Champions League qualification. The win capped an impressive run since Carrick took interim charge, with United collecting 32 points from 14 games, including wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool.
Carrick’s Confidence in the Role
Speaking after the match, Carrick said: “It has been a good run, we have beaten some very, very good teams. Sometimes we have won it in some ways, some in others. I love doing what I’m doing. It’s a great position for me to be in and it feels pretty natural, if I’m totally honest. I’m not being blase because it’s a difficult role, but it feels like I’ve been here a long time in different times on and off, and I can understand what it brings. To be sat in this position is a good position to be in.”
Carrick acknowledged that United’s achievements have exceeded his initial expectations. “When we came in, I think Champions League, to be honest, was a little bit in the distance. We wanted to try and get back into Europe, so to be where we are with three games to spare is a good achievement,” he added.
Mainoo’s Backing for Carrick
Kobbie Mainoo, who scored the winning goal against Arne Slot’s Liverpool side, threw his support behind Carrick’s bid for the permanent managerial role. Mainoo said: “He’s played a huge part in it, all the confidence he gives all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.”
United are expected to decide on Carrick’s long-term future in the summer, and this victory has strengthened his case. The team’s remarkable turnaround under his guidance has made him a strong contender to remain at the helm.
