Manchester United sealed a sensational return to the UEFA Champions League after a two-year hiatus following their 3-2 win over Liverpool on Sunday.
The Red Devils have missed out on the UCL for the last two campaigns and are now assured of a top five finish after a disappointing 15th place finish last season.
Michael Carrick has overseen remarkable improvements since taking over in January and he strengthened his chances of securing the role on a permanent deal with his latest win.
Manchester United were off to a flying start and took the lead in the sixth minute when Matheus Cunha fired home past Freddie Woodman.
The lead was doubled eight minutes later when Woodman pushed a cross from Bruno Fernandes unto Benjamin Sesko. The goal survived a VAR check for handball, but was given as Liverpool struggled against Manchester United’s intensity.
However, the champions were a different side in the second half and were gifted a goal back when substitute Amad Diallo, who had come on at the interval, gave away a pass which allowed Dominik Szoboszlai to score.
Senne Lammens was then at fault for Liverpool’s second, gifting the ball away before Szoboszlai fed Cody Gakpo who fired home to level the scoreline.
However, Manchester United were back ahead in the 77th minute when Kobbie Mainoo fired home a loose ball from the edge of the area.
They held off later pressure to seal a 3-2 win and book their place in next season’s Champions League, highlighting the great work Carrick has done at the club since taking over.
The three-time European champions also completed the double over Liverpool in the Premier League for the first time since the 2015-16 season.
Manchester United will now look to see out the season on a high in their three remaining matches, beginning with next weekend clash at Sunderland.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
