Michael Carrick explains why Liverpool clash is one of his favourite games
Interim head coach Michael Carrick has explained why Manchester United versus Liverpool is one of his favourite games in his football career.
While there is lots of attention on the title race and relegation battle this weekend, Manchester United’s clash with the Reds still occupies the prime Sunday, May 3, 2026 spot.
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Carrick, who experienced the fixture 23 times as a player, and then again as a coach, believes it will always be the centre of attention, due to the importance placed on it by supporters and the size of the two clubs.
He also spoke about Kobbie Mainoo’s new contract, Casemiro’s form and, as usual, the team news in his Friday, May 1, 2026 press conference.
Carrick on Liverpool meeting
Michael Carrick played a lot against Liverpool, asked if he would still regard it as the biggest game for Manchester United, no matter where the clubs are in the league currently, the tactician responded:
“It’s certainly one of my favourite games, yeah, without a doubt. It’s a standout game, there’s big games and big rivalries that we have with other teams. Certainly, this one is right up there and the history and the ups and downs that the past has produced in these types of games, the excitement, the entertainment and the emotion, which is a huge part of it – make it a really special game.”
Team news
On the availability of Matheus Cunha, Luke Shaw and de Ligt, Carrick said: “No, in good shape really. Matheus has done a little bit of work, so we’re hopeful. We’re not sure but we’re hopeful. Obviously, Matta is still a little bit further. He’s not involved in the game, but, other than that, we’re in good shape.”
Recently, the club announced Kobbie Mainoo has signed a new deal until 2031. On how big a boost is that to the club, Michael Carrick reacted:
“I’ve been hugely impressed with Kobbie since I’ve been here. I think I’ve known him for quite some time in different capacities, but I’ve certainly been aware of him for a long time. He epitomises this football club, you know? Young players coming through the Academy, who live and breathe the club and come through with real talent. He’s shown what he’s doing, I think the last couple of games in particular he’s been fantastic. The natural thing and the evolution is to sign a new contract and everyone’s over the moon with that, including me, because I think he deserves it,” he said.
Ahead of the Sunday’s encounter, Manchester United are placed third on the log with 61 points, while Liverpool are fourth with 58 points.
