Kobbie Mainoo's post-match tribute to Michael Carrick after Manchester United's 3-2 victory over Liverpool spoke volumes. "You want to follow him. You want to fight for him. You want to die for him on the pitch," the young midfielder said. "We showed that today." Mainoo's 77th-minute winner not only secured the win but also sealed Champions League qualification for United, ending their two-year absence from Europe's elite competition.
Since taking over as interim manager, Carrick has transformed the team's fortunes. He restored Bruno Fernandes to his preferred role, reintegrated Mainoo after a lack of playing time under the previous manager, and led United to impressive wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Liverpool. The league double over Liverpool is a first for the club since the 2015-16 season.
Despite calls for his permanent appointment, Carrick remains modest. "Whatever is going to happen, will happen," he said. Yet, he admitted, "I love doing what I am doing. It feels pretty natural."
The question now: why are Manchester United waiting to make him the permanent manager?