‘I used to dream of moments like this’- Mainoo celebrates Manchester United’s win against Liverpool

Kobbie Mainoo scored a stunning goal on his return from the sidelines as Manchester United reached the Champions League knockout stages with a 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Matheus Cunha opened the scoring in the sixth minute, his left-footed effort deflected off Alexis Mac Allister, before Benjamin Sesko doubled the lead in the 14th minute.

Liverpool responded after the break through Dominik Szoboszlai on 47 minutes and Cody Gakpo on 56 minutes to level the contest, before Mainoo settled it in the 77th minute, finishing calmly into the bottom corner after Luke Shaw’s through ball was put down by Amad Diallo.

It ensured United finished in the top four with three games remaining, marking a remarkable turnaround under Michael Carrick since replacing Ruben Amorim in January.

Mainoo: ‘I used to dream of times like this’

For Mainoo, returning from a first-team win, the goalscoring season at Old Trafford carried personal weight.

“We are happy to change it, it is an honor for all our players and the manager. We still have to finish the season strong, this is not enough for us.”

At his goal in front of the Stretford End, the school leaver was overcome with emotion.

“I saw a number of my family members, it’s a blessing to play and it’s a blessing to score a goal. I used to live in that corner, I’m just blessed to be in this position. I’ve been dreaming of times like this. I’m happy to be here with the team.”

He also spoke highly of his manager’s role in his recovery. “He played a big part in it, all the confidence he gave to all the players, you want to follow him and fight for him on the field.”

Carrick keeps the focus going forward

Michael Carrick acknowledged the importance of the result without letting his team get carried away, a tone that has defined his management since taking over.

“Qualifying for the Champions League felt far away at one time, it’s not something we really celebrate, we want to finish at the top of the league.”

Carrick praised the unifying spirit that led to United’s second-half performance, and was delighted with the way his side responded when they were pulled back.

“We scored a lot of goals, we have scored in the last five games. Our focus was on playing football. We are trying to put our energy into the game, we started the game well, and I am happy with the way we finished the game – two failures could have brought us down, but the players were at their level, and we came out on top.”

Regarding what has changed during his time in charge, Carrick added: “Good players and good staff really help. The communication we have as a team, overcoming change and difficult challenges. We are trying to do the right things and the players have taken everything well, we want to finish the season strong.”

As for what the future holds for him and the club, Carrick was measured. “It’s not what I like or what I don’t like, it’s not in my hands, everything went very well. We know the situation and we still want to get better and see what will happen next.”