Kobbie Mainoo has declared he would "fight and die for" Michael Carrick after helping Manchester United secure Champions League football for next season with a dramatic victory over Liverpool on Sunday.
The 19-year-old midfielder scored the winning goal at Old Trafford in a match that had everything—early dominance, a nervy collapse, and a late heroics. Benjamin Sesko opened the scoring inside five minutes, and Matheus Cunha doubled United's lead before halftime. But Liverpool roared back after the break, with Dominik Szoboszlai pulling one back and Cody Gakpo equalizing in the 56th minute. Just when it looked like United would let another lead slip, Mainoo stepped up to fire home the winner and seal a top-five finish.
"To turn it around the way we have done, it's a credit to the players and the manager," Mainoo told Sky Sports. "We are just looking forward and still need to finish the season strong."
It's been a remarkable turnaround for Mainoo, who had fallen out of favor under former boss Ruben Amorim and didn't start a Premier League game until January. But since Carrick took over as interim manager, the youngster has rediscovered his form—so much so that he signed a new contract earlier this week.
"It was difficult, of course, any time you're not playing football," Mainoo admitted. "I just tried to look forward as much as possible, keep working hard and keep my head down to get these things from it."
Carrick has now won 10 of his first 14 games in charge, transforming United's season. Mainoo was quick to credit the interim boss for his impact. "It's clearly a huge part. The confidence in not just me but all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch. That's what we showed today."
The winner was Mainoo's first league goal of the season, making it all the more memorable. "I've not been around the goals too much but happy to be around it in this game, such a special occasion and special fixture."
With Champions League football secured and momentum building, United look set to finish the season on a high—and Mainoo's rise from the sidelines to match-winner is a story every fan will want to wear on their sleeve.