Michael Carrick has openly discussed the tactical oversight made by his predecessor, Ruben Amorim, regarding Manchester United's rising star Kobbie Mainoo, whose recent performances have been described as 'a joy to watch'. The interim manager's insights come amid a notable resurgence for the young midfielder at Old Trafford.
Mainoo's Revival Under Carrick's Guidance
Since Michael Carrick took over as interim boss at Manchester United, Kobbie Mainoo has experienced a dramatic turnaround in his fortunes at the club. The England international, who had been contemplating his future due to a lack of faith from former manager Ruben Amorim, has been swiftly reinstated into the starting lineup. This decision has proven pivotal, with Mainoo forming an immediate and effective partnership with the experienced Casemiro in midfield.
Impact on Team Dynamics and Performance
This renewed midfield duo has allowed Bruno Fernandes to operate in a more advanced role, significantly enhancing United's overall cohesion. The team's recent back-to-back victories over Manchester City and Arsenal have starkly contrasted with their earlier struggles under Amorim, highlighting the error in underestimating Mainoo's capabilities. Carrick pointed out that Amorim's approach of 'pigeonholing' the 20-year-old was a misstep, as Mainoo demonstrates versatility across different positions.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's match against Fulham, Carrick elaborated: 'Sometimes we can pigeonhole players quite quickly, but it's not always the case. Kobbie can play different roles within that, but definitely with Cassie in the middle, the last couple of games they've had a really good pairing and been a big part of controlling the team.'
Mainoo's Rising Profile and Future Prospects
Mainoo's impressive form over the past two weeks has sparked discussions about his potential recall to Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the upcoming World Cup. His ability to handle high-pressure situations, including playing in finals and the Euros, underscores his maturity. Carrick emphasised the importance of Mainoo maintaining his composure amid growing acclaim, noting his resilience through highs and disappointments.
Carrick added: 'He's so young, Kobbie. He's had some real highs and he's had some disappointments, that's natural. I was similar myself when you're young and coming through. It makes him better, stronger, and more experienced, and he's showing that. He's a joy to watch. A big part of being a top player is being able to cope with the environment.'
Supporting Mainoo's Continued Development
Looking ahead, Carrick stressed the need for ongoing support and development for Mainoo to sustain his current form. 'Kobbie's in a good place at the moment, and we've got to keep pushing him, supporting him, and improving him,' he stated. This focus on nurturing talent reflects Carrick's broader strategy to build a more dynamic and successful Manchester United side, leveraging the strengths of players like Mainoo who were previously overlooked.
