Carrick Delighted as Man United Secure Champions League Spot – Hints at Wanting Higher Finish

Michael Carrick, Manchester United manager, revealed his satisfaction after guiding the team to a thrilling 3-2 home win against longtime rivals Liverpool in the Premier League, successfully securing a return ticket to UEFA Champions League football.

"Yes, in some ways, the work we've done and how the players have executed on the pitch—we've gained plenty from this match," Carrick said. "The idea of finishing in a Champions League spot seemed distant at one point, but it's not something we should be celebrating. We simply want to finish as high as possible in the league."

Carrick highlighted the importance of team cohesion and player quality: "Having good players and a good staff certainly helps. The unity we have as a working group, overcoming changes and difficult challenges—we just try to do the right things, and the players have responded excellently. We want to finish this season as strongly as possible."

Speaking to Sky Sports about United's improved finishing this era, Carrick noted: "We've been scoring goals and have been clinical over the last five matches. What we focus on is playing without the ball. We try to use our strengths in the game. We started well, and I'm pleased with how we closed out the match. Being pegged back twice could have derailed us, but the players are very talented and we came back to win. The players have regained confidence, though it's been tested. They want to work hard for each other."

Regarding Benjamin Sesko's injury, the Slovenian striker who was substituted at halftime, Carrick confirmed that Sesko has been dealing with an ankle problem and reaggravated the issue during the match.