Michael Carrick has hailed the Manchester United vs. Liverpool fixture as "special" and a "standout" game, even with neither club currently in the Premier League title race. As the two most decorated clubs in English football—each boasting 20 league titles—prepare to clash at Old Trafford on Sunday, the stakes remain high with both teams firmly in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
United sit third in the table, just three points clear of their historic rivals, and with the top five securing a spot in Europe's elite competition next season, the match carries significant weight. "Certainly one of my favourite games, without doubt it's a standout game," said Carrick, who took over as United boss in January. "There are big games and big rivalries we have with other teams, but this one is right up there. The history, the ups and downs, the excitement, entertainment, and emotion—it makes it a really special game."
The former United midfielder highlighted the club's remarkable turnaround from last season's disappointing 15th-place finish, which left them a staggering 42 points behind champions Liverpool. "This shows the improvements of the group and how we're getting stronger," Carrick explained. "To come into this game in such a good position, on the back of good results, and trying to achieve and move forward—it's a testament to the progress. We're fully aware of how close it is between us in the league, but that's not something we've focused on. This is a one-off game."
Off the pitch, United are celebrating the contract extension of 21-year-old England international Kobbie Mainoo, who signed a new five-year deal this week. Mainoo had fallen out of favor under former boss Ruben Amorim but has been revitalized under Carrick, playing a key role in the team's resurgence. "He's done fantastic," said Carrick. "There's more to come—loads more. I keep saying that because he's such a young man, but he's in a great spot at the moment."
With the rivalry reignited and both sides chasing Champions League glory, Sunday's showdown promises to deliver the drama and passion that makes this fixture one of football's greatest.