A great midfielder himself, the interim coach has a clear idea of how the youngster should progress at the moment
Perhaps the most notable change that Michael Carrick has made at Manchester United is bringing Kobbie Mainoo back into the frame in a 4-2-3-1 system.
Ruben Amorim faced heavy criticism for leaving the talented youngster, a kid who started for trophy-starved England in the final of the European Championships, on the bench in favour of an extra defender, when United were clearly ruing the weakness of their midfield and contemplating new additions.
The offset that the Portuguese coach was able to fit in both Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, alongside Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha if he wanted to, just was not enough. From playing only a handful of minutes under Amorim Mainoo has now started and played full time in all of Carrick’s five games in charge.
Kobbie’s recent form 👌 pic.twitter.com/6ZazwPDpn5
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 18, 2026
There is much yet to be refined in the youngster’s game, but United supporters have generally been thrilled by his performances so far.
So why has Carrick trusted him so?
“I was just a big fan of watching him play and knowing what he was capable of,” said United’s interim coach. “So it wasn’t really a big decision to play him. And, to be fair, it’s not easy when you haven’t played to find your rhythm and find your form.
He added: “I’ve known Kobbie a long time. I started working with him when I think he was 13 or 14, when I was starting to do my coaching badges – a good few years ago. Just little bits. And then, obviously, when I was here the first time, he was in and around a little bit.
“So I think knowing him and having experience with him and seeing him perform at such a level on such big occasions… What Kobbie’s done at such a young age is quite incredible really. We forget how young he still is.”
This guy is still just 20 btw. pic.twitter.com/9seBIVdXnL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 9, 2026
The 20-year-old still lacks long-range passing ability. He isn’t the quickest. And he often lacks the defensive awareness and ability required of the very best in his position. But Carrick, a great midfielder himself, has a clear idea of how the youngster should progress at the moment.
“There are things he can get better at, things he can improve on, but we haven’t really got started on any of that because we’re just letting him go and find his flow and find his rhythm of playing football again,” said Carrick.
“I’ve been really conscious of not giving him an awful lot – a couple of little pointers, a bit of positional things and some little bits here and there – but trust in what he is. He’s a fantastic footballer and he’s got a huge talent.”
As Mainoo continues showcasing his talent on the biggest stage, for one of the biggest clubs in the world, he’ll be hoping to have the steady hand and mind of Carrick to guide him.
