Michael Carrick says he feels “pretty natural” in his role as Manchester United head coach, having secured Champions League football for next season.

United’s 3-2 win over Liverpool on Sunday moved them onto 64 points for the season and also means they will definitely finish in the top five, returning to UEFA’s premier competition.

Kobbie Mainoo, fresh off signing a new five-year contract at Old Trafford, snatched all three points to take United 12 points clear of sixth-place Bournemouth with three games to play.

It has been a stunning turnaround under Carrick, who replaced Ruben Amorim in January, with no team accruing more points in the Premier League than United since he took over (32).

“I love doing what I’m doing, and it’s a great position for me to be in,” said Carrick.

“It feels pretty natural if I’m totally honest. I’m not being blase because it’s a difficult role, but it feels that I’ve been here a long time.

“I kind of understand what it brings, and to be sat in this position is a good position.”

”European games have a beauty all of their own.” – Sir Matt Busby pic.twitter.com/fMtRZYPzr0

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 3, 2026

Under Carrick (including in 2021), United have won eight of their nine Premier League home games (L1).

He is only the sixth manager – and first English manager – to win at least eight of his first nine home games in the competition, and first since Antonio Conte in 2016-17 (also 8/9).

Carrick is reportedly the frontrunner to get the permanent job at the end of the season, having only signed a short-term contract when returning to Old Trafford.

“When we came in, I think Champions League, to be honest, was a little bit in the distance,” he added.

“To be where we are with three games to go, there’s a lot of satisfaction that comes with that, but that can’t be everything.”