United back up where they belong, thanks to Carrick

Manchester United 3 Cunha (6), Sesko (14), Mainoo (77) Liverpool 2 Szoboszlai (47), Gakpo (56)

- RICHARD JOLLY

Even signing a contract worth millions may not have been the highlight of Kobbie Mainoo’s week.

The poster boy for the Michael Carrick revolution at Manchester United capped the transformation in both his fortunes and theirs with a goal whose significance was as much emotional as financial.

United clinched their return to the European elite. “Qualifying for the Champions League felt off in the distance at one point,” said Carrick. He has made it a reality. And though a draw was all his side required, the winner Mainoo drilled in completed a double over Liverpool, ensured a comeback from Arne Slot’s side that was simultaneously inspired and illogical was in vain, and gave United further reasons to appoint Carrick. “I love doing what I am doing,” he said. “It feels pretty natural.”

He looks a natural fit. He has been on quite a run. He has beaten Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and now Liverpool. “We have beaten some very, very good teams,” Carrick said. He can feel the manager for the big occasion. Mainoo can save his goals for them. He has only struck eight times for United, but they include a winner in a Manchester derby that doubled up as an FA Cup final and now a decider against Liverpool. For a Mancunian and a United fan, each has come with a resonance. “I used to dream of times like these,” he said.