Kobbie Mainoo stars as Manchester United edge Liverpool to seal Champions League spot

Kobbie Mainoo stars as Manchester United edge Liverpool to seal Champions League spot

Just a few days after committing his long-term future to Manchester United, Kobbie Mainoo produced another moment of brilliance against Liverpool to seal a 3-2 victory at Old Trafford on Sunday.

With the game poised at 2-2, it was Mainoo who stepped forward with 13 minutes remaining to fire United back in front.

Luke Shaw’s cross was nodded down by Amad Diallo, and when Alexis Mac Allister could only slice the ball to the edge of the box, Mainoo reacted quickest and guided a composed, side-footed finish that curled into the left corner. His anticipation and execution were flawless.

It was a goal that will draw inevitable comparisons to the striker he scored against Liverpool in a 2-2 draw during his breakthrough campaign in April 2024 — and, fittingly, in the same fixture, he has made something of a personal stage.

Mainoo’s influence extended well beyond his moment of inspiration in front of goal. He completed 48 of his 54 passes, won five of his seven ground duels and completed both of his dribble attempts.