Carrick: Liverpool Derby is Definitely One of My Favorite Matches

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has spoken about the special significance of the clash with historic rivals Liverpool. The two teams are set to face off at Old Trafford on Sunday, and for the first time in a while, the Red Devils find themselves in a higher league position ahead of the derby. United holds a three-point advantage, and a victory on Sunday would almost certainly guarantee them a finish above Liverpool. However, the Merseyside club would leapfrog their rivals into third place if they secure a win at the "Theatre of Dreams."

"This is definitely one of my favorite matches. An exceptional fixture. There are other big games and rivalries, but this one stands above them all. The history, the ups and downs, the excitement, the entertainment, the emotion – all these things make this match special. The feeling and emotion of the fans towards this game have never changed, regardless of league position or who was at the top at certain times. To participate in this match and win it is the best feeling you can experience."

"Being ahead of them shows the team's improvement, that we are getting stronger. We are going into this match in a good position. We are fully aware of the league situation – that we are very close to each other, but we are not focused on that. This is a standalone match. They have good players and won the league last year, so we respect all of that. Sunday is something completely different. It's a real privilege for all of us to be involved. These are two incredible football clubs. To be so close to each other in so many ways – in terms of titles and geography, to have such an impact over such a period is something so special," Carrick stated.

The interim manager added that he hopes Matheus Cunha will be fit for the Liverpool clash. The same applies to Luke Shaw, who was forced off against Brentford. Matthijs de Ligt is still recovering from a back injury, and Lisandro Martinez will serve the third match of his suspension.

"We are in good shape. Matheus Cunha has done some work on the training pitch. I'm not sure yet if he will be available, but I hope so. Matthijs de Ligt is a little further behind and won't be involved. The others are in good shape."

Carrick also expressed his satisfaction with Kobbie Mainoo's new contract.

"I've been extremely impressed with Kobbie since I've been here. I've known him for a long time, and he embodies this football club. He's a player who has come through the academy, lives and breathes the club. In the last few games, he's been fantastic, and signing a new contract is a natural progression. Everyone is thrilled about it, including me, because he deserves it."