MICHAEL CARRICK consoled a frustrated Amad Diallo at full-time after Manchester United blew a two-goal lead before beating Liverpool 3-2, but fans were left split over the touching moment.
The Red Devils looked in total control at the break, leading 2-0 thanks to goals from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.
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Michael Carrick consoles Amad Diallo at full-time Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
Amad and Carrick share a warm player-manager embrace Credit: Alamy
But the game turned on its head after the interval.
Amad, 23, replaced the injured Sesko at half-time, and within two minutes lost possession – allowing Dominik Szoboszlai to pull one back.
Cody Gakpo then equalised just nine minutes later, leaving United on the back foot.
However, Kobbie Mainoo struck late to seal a dramatic win – Carrick’s 10th victory in 14 games – a run that has seen his side pick up more points than any other team in the league.
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Despite the result, Amad cut a dejected figure at full-time, pulling his shirt over his face in frustration.
Carrick quickly stepped in.
The United boss put an arm around the Ivorian winger and embracing him on the pitch in a show of support.
But the gesture sparked mixed reactions online from fans on X.
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One fan said: “I love Carrick, he is making me fall in love with Man Utd again.”
Another added: “We are with you. We remember how you were our pillar during our difficult time… this too shall pass. Keep your head up.”
A third wrote: “This is a fella that understands human beings.”
Yet others were far less sympathetic.
Amad conceded possession in the build-up to Liverpool’s first goal Credit: Getty
Amad was visibly frustrated at the end of the game yesterday, but Carrick came to his aid Credit: Getty
One fumed: “Why is he frustrated? Is he 2, he should fix up. Silly player.”
Another added: “Amad plays like he has forgotten where he comes from… if he keeps this up, his position will need strengthening this summer.”
Amad has struggled for end product under Carrick, failing to score or assist in 14 Premier League games since returning from AFCON.
That’s in stark contrast to his form under former boss Ruben Amorim, where he registered nine goals and nine assists in 33 league appearances.
Amad’s numbers were far better under Amorim than they have been under Carrick so far Credit: Reuters
Amad’s numbers this season
Carrick, though, insists the winger is still a key part of his plans.
He said: “He’s playing well. There’s an awful lot more to the game… than worrying about numbers. He gives the team so much.
“He’s got so much talent, so much ability, but his work ethic and his attitude is fantastic as well.
“He’s given the team an awful lot… it’s not always what grabs the headlines that provides success.”
