Manchester United will be returning to the biggest European stage in 2026/2027 following Sunday’s developments.Indeed, the Red Devils booked their Champions League spot via a 3-2 win over Liverpool, which set in stone that they would finish in the top five of the Premier League.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYWho might United face in the Champions League next term?As things stand, United sit third and will be hoping to either maintain that position in the final three fixtures of the campaign, or even try to close the gap on second-placed Manchester City, who have a six-point advantage having played two fewer games.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustBBC Sport’s Simon Stone took to X/Twitter this morning to preview some of the clubs United may face when the competition gets underway next season.With it looking as though the Reds will be in pot two or three in the UCL draw, it ‘guarantees’ two fixtures against non-English heavyweights, such as Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Lots still to be decided but looks like @ManUtd will end up in Pot 2 or 3 in the Champions League draw. Doesn’t mean as much with new format but guarantees two games against the biggest non-English clubs; so Bayern, PSG, Real, Barca, Inter. — Simon Stone (@sistoney67) May 4, 2026Of the quintet, four of the sides either have already (Bayern and Inter) or are about to (PSG and Barcelona) win their respective leagues.Which other PL clubs will be in the UCL along with United?Joining United from the Premier League will be Arsenal and Manchester City, and it remains to be seen who else will after matchweek 35.Fifth-placed Aston Villa suffered a second successive league defeat at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur, with the result moving Spurs out of the relegation zone, while Liverpool, Bournemouth and Brentford are still in contention.However, should Villa, who have to overturn a one-goal deficit against Nottingham Forest in the semi-final second leg this week, win the Europa League, they would automatically qualify.
BBC: ‘Guarantees two games against…’ — The teams Man Utd could face next season after securing UCL qualification
Gary Neville names the deciding factor for fully supporting Michael Carrick as United boss
Gary Neville has suggested he will fully back Michael Carrick for the permanent Manchester United position under one condition. Clear frontrunner Carrick tightened his grip on the permanent managerial position after masterminding a 3-2 victory over Liverpool on Sunday. Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko found the back of the net to give United a commanding two-goal advantage heading into the break. Liverpool improved in the second half, though they were helped considerably by errors from Amad and Senne Lammens, which let the hosts draw level through Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo. But Kobbie Mainoo delivered when it mattered, blasting home a stunning 77th-minute strike to restore United’s lead and grab all three points. The win gave United the double over Liverpool and, just as importantly, secured Champions League football. Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Carrick gave the clearest hint yet that he wants the job permanently. He said that the role feels “natural” to him and he is enjoying every minute of it. Carrick refused to be drawn on whether he would be disappointed if United passed him over for someone else, offering only a measured “we will see what happens.” Neville has been among the most vocal critics of Carrick’s appointment, alongside Roy Keane. The pair have consistently argued that United need to go for a manager with a higher pedigree than Carrick. Neville stood by his view on Sunday, but suggested he could support a Carrick stay if it were only a short-term arrangement. Neville’s condition Neville said on Sky Sports, “There’s no one really being seriously linked with the job. He’s put himself in pole position with what he’s done. He’s re-established a few things. The way the club plays, and the system.” “I think there are things that have emerged that will give Man Utd fans comfort and that they are in safe hands. Manchester United need some stability. They’ve not had that for the last few years, but he will bring that in the sense that everyone trusts him.” The former United captain added, “Fans like him, the players obviously like him. The owners will trust him. Next year, he’s got 55-60 games with the Champions League and surely they won’t go out in the first rounds of the cup competitions.” “Then it’s all a different level of management and scrutiny. It’s a lot more challenging. Does he have the experience? Does he have the body of work to rely upon?” “Some people say ‘why don’t you give him a year contract and give him a further year to stabilise things further?’ I don’t think I can argue with that. But, if a world-class manager became available that has won titles, Manchester United should probably pursue that route because the last five managers have not had that super club experience. Michael would be another who has not quite got that.” Carrick and his players are next in action on Saturday when they go away to Sunderland. Featured image by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Watch: Liverpool needed three men to dispossess 7.3-rated United ace who nutmegged Mac Allister
Benjamin Sesko oversaw yet another stellar display for Manchester United yesterday, despite it being cut short after 45 minutes.The Slovenian was replaced by Amad Diallo at the interval after taking a nasty fall off the pitch towards the closing stages of the first half.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYHow Benjamin Sesko fared on SundayHowever, he did enough in his shift to earn a rating of 7.3 by Fotmob for his efforts.Sesko added to his account for the campaign with a goal in the 14th minute to take his tally to 11 in his maiden term, meaning he has now exceeded his predecessor Rasmus Hojlund’s highest return (in a single Premier League season) of 10. Manchester United are FLYING! Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustAlthough he had only 11 touches in the clash, he registered a 100% shot accuracy by having two shots on target, registered four touches in Liverpool’s box and made one recovery.Remarkably, since Ruben Amorim was relieved of his managerial duties at the start of January, no United player has scored more goals than the youngster, showing just how much he’s benefited from Michael Carrick’s trust and newly-implemented tactics.Sesko praised for frustrating LiverpoolOne particular passage of play on Sunday caught the eye of fans, too.A clip of the 22-year-old in action shows him nutmegging Alexis Mac Allister and fending off the likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones before they, along with Virgil van Dijk, were finally able to dispossess him. Bro nutmegged Mac Allister and sent Gravenberch to the ground, took 3 just to stop him https://t.co/fxWp43CnXB pic.twitter.com/XCh7cQxXLp — United Extra (@TheUnitedExtra) May 4, 2026Presumably, Sesko will retain his place for Saturday’s trip to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland this Saturday, May 9 (3pm kick-off).
Watch: Michael Carrick spotted comforting struggling Man Utd man who had to apologise to fans for second-half blunder
Michael Carrick was spotted having a moment with Amad Diallo post-match yesterday after the forward’s blunder led to Liverpool scoring.Amad replaced Benjamin Sesko at the interval when Manchester United were leading 2-0, and proceeded to essentially assist Dominik Szoboszlai with his first touch of the ball.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYWhat happened with Amad vs LFC?Indeed, the Ivorian played a careless pass to Szoboszlai, who was then able to carry the ball all the way forward into United’s area before calmly converting his effort past Senne Lammens. A fabulous solo goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool are in the contest! 👏 pic.twitter.com/qy0XNLki2g — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustAmad then appeared to apologise to supporters for the mishap by raising his hands in acknowledgement of the error, before Carrick went over to comfort him post-match. Amad going straight to apologise to the fans after that error, you can tell that goal really hurt him💔 https://t.co/BywGhDLRzr pic.twitter.com/yj4cp6pPpj — Ezzy (@EzzyMUFC) May 3, 2026The youngster is enduring a particularly difficult run at the moment, which looks to have left him bereft of confidence. Michael Carrick consoling Amad after full-time. Love this from the gaffer. 👏❤️ pic.twitter.com/kPvFqR98Yl — (fan) Frank 🧠🇾🇪 (@FrankEra_) May 3, 2026How Amad is faring as of lateAmad has not scored or assisted this calendar year, which also coincides with his return from the African Cup of Nations.Last week, in the win over Brentford, he was withdrawn at the interval following a lacklustre 45-minute shift, and was consequently dropped from the line-up upon Matheus Cunha’s return on Sunday.He was called upon perhaps earlier than anticipated, though, as he came on in place of Sesko to see out the second half.Unfortunately, you’d imagine the 23-year-old will again be omitted from the XI for Saturday’s trip to face his former club, Sunderland, at the Stadium of Light this weekend. Appearances Goals Assists 42 14 4 Amad’s record in all competitions during his loan spell with the Black Cats
Roy Keane says there’s one Man Utd star he’d ‘pay’ to watch play – but he can do even ‘more’ than he is
Roy Keane voiced rare praise for Bruno Fernandes ahead of kick-off between Manchester United and Liverpool.Unsurprisingly, the Red Devils skipper proceeded to oversee yet another five-star display in the middle of the park.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYHow Bruno Fernandes fared in triumphant win over LiverpoolAlthough United secured a crucial win against their arch-rivals, which marked their first league double over the Merseyside outfit in a decade, as well as qualified for the Champions League, you couldn’t blame Fernandes for being quietly aggrieved that he didn’t break the assist record yesterday.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustFor a while, he likely thought he had, as he headed the ball back into the area to set up Benjamin Sesko’s goal to make it 2-0 in United’s favour.However, upon closer inspection, Sesko’s effort eventually went in after taking a slight touch off of Freddie Woodman’s glove, meaning Fernandes wasn’t credited for creating the goal. Manchester United are FLYING! Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026He will have to wait until Saturday’s clash at the Stadium of Light to potentially level or even exceed the record, which is currently held by both Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Appearances Goals Assists 32 8 19 Fernandes’ league record this seasonAs per Fotmob, Fernandes created the most chances of any player at Old Trafford yesterday (six).The Portuguese maestro also recorded eight final third passes, six touches in the opposition’s area, four accurate long balls and two accurate crosses. Defensively, he did his bit by making five recoveries, two clearances and one interception.What did Keane say about Fernandes?Such a commanding showing only further proved why Keane was so complimentary of him before the action got underway.The United legend told the Sky Sports panel: “I think Bruno is an amazing player, absolutely amazing. He’s one of the few players I’d pay to watch him play. He makes the game look easy. His stats are fantastic.“But the reason we, and I, have been critical of him is because I think so highly of him, I want more from him.” “He’s one of the few players I’d pay to watch to play” Roy Keane is full of praise for Bruno Fernandes 👏 pic.twitter.com/wgi5CEuvMJ — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
8.1-rated Man Utd whiz directly answered pre-game Roy Keane plea with what he did in second half vs LFC
Before Manchester United’s clash with Liverpool got underway on Sunday afternoon, Roy Keane urged Kobbie Mainoo to prove himself even more so than he has already.Fast-forward to full-time, and the young starlet was accepting the Player of the Match award after scoring the winner to secure a 3-2 victory over United’s arch-rivals, as well as a first league double in 10 years. Kobbie Mainoo rattles it in at the Stretford End! 💥 pic.twitter.com/3HDRLnyC4D — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYMainoo’s heroics rubber-stamp United’s UCL placeThe victory also confirmed that the Reds would indeed be playing Champions League football next season, meaning Michael Carrick has now fulfilled the task assigned to him when he took the reins in January.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustMainoo’s game-winning efforts came just three days after it was announced that he had put pen to paper on a new deal at Old Trafford, committing his future to his boyhood club until 2031.United were keen to tie him down to new terms in order to prevent any potential departure for their homegrown star, especially considering Chelsea had reportedly been sizing up a move when Mainoo had fallen out of favour under Ruben Amorim.How Mainoo directly responded to Keane’s pre-match plea“I’m not convinced yet. He has talent and he’s still young, but I think he needs to do even more,” said Keane when discussing the 21-year-old’s senior career up to this point on Sky Sports. “He still hasn’t convinced me” Roy Keane is not convinced that Kobbie Mainoo will be an ‘obvious starter’ for Manchester United next season 🔴 pic.twitter.com/9HhoFjx4C7 — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026Mainoo proceeded to earn a rating of 8.1 on Fotmob following his 90-minute shift – the highest of any United player on the pitch.Aside from his goal, he registered six final-third passes and two successful dribbles. Defensively, he made seven recoveries, two interceptions and one tackle, while also winning five ground duels.
Just in: David Ornstein shares immediate post-match update on Carrick’s future after United secure UCL spot
David Ornstein has shed some light on Michael Carrick’s situation at Manchester United amid growing expectations he will land the permanent managerial role.This afternoon’s win means the Englishman’s record stands at a hugely impressive 10 wins, two draws and two defeats since he took the reins in mid-January.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYWhy United fans are rallying behind Michael CarrickWhat’s particularly impressive, though, is that he has orchestrated a United side that looked completely bereft of confidence and creativity to oversee emphatic victories over Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool in his short reign.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe latter marked a first league double against the Merseyside outfit in a decade, albeit credit must also be given to Ruben Amorim for that feat, given the reverse fixture at Anfield came in the final months of his tenure.However, it also secured United’s spot in the Champions League for 2026/2027, which was the primary task assigned to Carrick when INEOS appointed him at the start of the year. Michael Carrick has done an incredible job at @ManUtd 👏 No side has taken more points since he returned to Old Trafford in January 🔝 pic.twitter.com/c6quPbeXv9 — Premier League (@premierleague) May 3, 2026Could Andoni Iraola replace Carrick?With the large majority of highly-regarded managers all tied down into deals with their respective clubs, the one candidate who’s thought to pose a serious threat to Carrick staying long-term is Andoni Iraola.The Spaniard is preparing for his final three matches in the dugout for Bournemouth, after which he will depart the Vitality Stadium for pastures new. 🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Andoni Iraola to leave Bournemouth when contract ends this summer. #AFCB did everything to keep head coach but 43yo chose to go + successor process under way – Kieran McKenna high among options. W/ @MarioCortegana @Dan_Sheldon_ @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/YrECN7Xdr3 — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) April 14, 2026Fabrizio Romano has previously confirmed that Iraola would be open to managing United, which INEOS chiefs will have undoubtedly taken note of.What Ornstein had to say about Carrick’s situation“Well, Champions League qualification was the aim when Michael Carrick was put in charge to replace Ruben Amorim,” Ornstein told NBC Sports during their broadcast of United vs Liverpool, which he subsequently shared to his Instagram at full-time. “But when that was set as the aim, it was not the automatic consequence that he would receive the job as a prize for it. Of course, Carrick has done fantastically well so far, and he has put himself in a really strong position to get the role on a permanent basis. It would feel very difficult not to give it to him now in the eyes of many of us, but that doesn’t mean it’s a fait accompli.“It’s the duty of Jason Wilcox, the Director of Football leading this process, Chief Executive Omar Berrada, the ownership, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers to conduct a proper process, and to get what they feel to be the best possible candidate.“We all know there are more experienced options out there than Michael Carrick. There are people who have won trophies, who have managed transfer windows, who have juggled European and domestic competitions, which Carrick hasn’t done so far. But many of them are not available.“And I think if you were talking about the big hitters, the likes of Thomas Tuchel, Luis Enrique, Carlo Ancelotti, we might be having a very different conversation here, but they’re not on the market. The likes of Iraola, [Oliver] Glasner, [Marco] Silva, [and Xabi] Alonso are.”
Blow for Carrick: In-form Man Utd star suffers injury setback vs Liverpool after incredible first-half display
Benjamin Sesko has been withdrawn at the interval of Manchester United’s clash with Liverpool.Considering the striker had overseen a tremendous first-half display that saw him notch his 11th Premier League goal, it is presumably an injury setback that has led to him being hooked.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYAmad Diallo comes on for Sesko for second half vs LFCAmad Diallo replaced the Slovenian after being dropped from the XI, and he has endured a nightmare start to his shift.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe newly-introduced winger played the ball directly to Dominik Szoboszlai, who was then able to carry it all the way forward to United’s area and slot it past Senne Lammens to give the visitors a lifeline early on in the second half.Against Brentford last time out, Amad was brought off after 45 minutes following a particularly lacklustre start to the fixture.Gary Neville subsequently predicted that the 23-year-old would lose his starting spot today so long as Matheus Cunha was available, which came to fruition before kick-off.Cunha netted the opener upon his return to the XI, marking the ninth goal of his maiden campaign in red.Amad has to get back on track – and quickAlas, it goes without saying that Amad has a huge 40 minutes ahead of him if he is to make amends for his error and move back up in Michael Carrick’s estimations ahead of next Saturday’s trip to face his former club, Sunderland, at the Stadium of Light.Read more: Man Utd fans will absolutely love first-half moment that left Van Dijk red-faced immediately after Sesko goal
Man Utd fans will absolutely love first-half moment that left Van Dijk red-faced immediately after Sesko goal
While waiting for VAR to make a firm decision on whether Benjamin Sesko’s goal should stand, Virgil van Dijk optimistically threw the ball back to Freddie Woodman.The Liverpool skipper seemed confident Sesko’s effort would be ruled out for handball – until Manchester United were rightfully awarded their second of the afternoon. Van Dijk threw the ball back to the goalie during the stoppage, expecting a free kick. Tough luck. #mufc — Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) May 3, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYSesko makes it 2-0 to United early doors vs LFCIt marks the Slovenian’s 11th Premier League goal of the term, meaning he has now exceeded his predecessor Rasmus Hojlund’s best-ever return in a red shirt – and with three games left to play. Manchester United are FLYING! Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustBruno Fernandes still awaiting Premier League record assistSesko’s contribution, which came only eight minutes after Matheus Cunha’s opener, looked as though it was assisted by Bruno Fernandes, and, therefore, led to a couple of the players signalling to their captain a number ‘20’ under the assumption he had levelled the assist record.However, as things stand, the midfield talisman, unfortunately, hasn’t been credited due to Woodman getting a glove on the ball before it hit the back of the net.Yet, with how United have fared in this first half, Fernandes could well level and exceed the record before Darren England blows his whistle for full-time.“Bruno Fernandes is a fantastic player. He’s the kind of player I’d be willing to pay for my seat to watch,” Keane said of United’s No.8 before kick-off.“If we’ve been critical, it’s because we expected more from him. If we expect more from him, it’s because we know he’s capable of it. I think he can do even more.”Read more: Bruno Fernandes has told INEOS the one thing he needs to stay at Man Utd beyond the summer transfer window – Telegraph
Michael Carrick makes history with stunning new record after statement win vs. Liverpool
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick set a remarkable English managers record during Sunday’s statement 3-2 victory over Liverpool. Carrick masterclass Carrick’s brilliant run since he was named Ruben Amorim’s temporary replacement in January rolled on as he masterminded a stunning win against bitter rivals, Liverpool, at Old Trafford. United flew out of the traps and took the lead within six minutes, thanks to a moment of sublime quality from Matheus Cunha. Benjamin Sesko doubled the hosts’ lead with a determined surge into the box, causing chaos. Liverpool goalkeeper Freddie Woodman got a hand to Bruno Fernandes’s header, but could only palm it onto Sesko’s thigh. The striker gratefully bundled it home. Liverpool improved in the second half but not without some help from United, who made mistakes that were ruthlessly punished. A poor pass from Amad was intercepted by Dominik Szoboszlai, who raced up the pitch before burying the ball into the bottom corner. Things worsened for United after Senne Lammens easily turned over possession while trying to play out from the back, leading to Cody Gakpo turning it in from close range. But Kobbie Mainoo came up clutch, latching onto a clearance and rifling the ball into the net to crown a masterful display. After the final whistle, Carrick hailed his players’ mentality and resilience, even when things were not going their way. The 44-year-old was also questioned about his future and gave the clearest hint yet that he wants it permanently. He informed reporters that the role feels natural to him. When asked whether missing out would disappoint him, Carrick sidestepped the question, smiling and merely saying, “We’ll see.” Carrick makes history Not only is Carrick turning things around at United, but he also seems to be making history as he goes. According to statisticians Opta, Carrick is only the sixth manager, and first English manager, to win at least eight of his opening nine home games in the Premier League. He is the first since Antonio Conte in the 2016/17 campaign, when the Italian coach led Chelsea to the title. 8 – Michael Carrick is only the sixth manager – and first English manager – to win 8+ of his opening 9 home games in the @premierleague, and first since Antonio Conte in 2016-17 (also 8/9). Compelling. pic.twitter.com/O5fRyUxj9E — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 3, 2026 The case for Carrick as United’s permanent head coach grows stronger by the day, and he has fully deserved it. Long may it continue! Featured image by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
