Kobbie Mainoo is set to remain at Manchester United after a significant change in his fortunes following Ruben Amorim’s departure and the arrival of Michael Carrick, a development that brings an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the midfielder’s future.
The England international of Ghanaian descent had grown increasingly frustrated earlier in the season after finding his first-team opportunities limited under Amorim.
Despite interest from Napoli last summer, Mainoo was denied a move and subsequently struggled for consistent minutes, leading to reports of tension with the former head coach and speculation that a winter exit was inevitable.
That narrative has now shifted decisively.
A symbolic derby start signals change
Carrick wasted little time in signalling a fresh approach, handing Mainoo his first start of the season in Saturday’s Manchester derby.
United’s 2–0 victory over City, secured through goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, represented more than just three points. For Mainoo, it was a public vote of confidence and a chance to reassert his value within the squad.
According to reports, including from the Daily Mail, that selection followed a series of positive discussions between Carrick and the midfielder.
Those talks are understood to have played a key role in convincing Mainoo that his future remains at Old Trafford, despite strong expectations only weeks ago that he would seek a move elsewhere.
Carrick outlines a clearer role
Speaking after the derby win, Carrick offered insight into how he sees Mainoo fitting into United’s plans for the remainder of the campaign, making clear that the midfielder’s strengths lie further up the pitch.
“He’s more of an attacker. I don’t see him as a holding midfielder. He’s that line above where he needs a little bit more freedom,” Carrick said. “He can defend the higher line, but I think that bit deeper, around the centre-backs, that’s a bit of a different thing completely.”
Carrick added: “I see him playing that little bit higher and creating. I think he’s got a massive future. I really like him, he just needs that patience and a little bit of a break again.”
