Since taking the reins at Manchester United two weeks ago, Michael Carrick has changed the careers of several players at Old Trafford.
It has been a whirlwind start to life as the manager of Manchester United for Michael Carrick, taking six points from the top two in the Premier League.
This incredible form has come alongside the new coaching staff, restoring the mood at the club, with Lisandro Martinez hailing Carrick’s impact already.
Now, Carrick has been discussing one player who he is very impressed by, admitting he has the quality needed to be a top player.
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Michael Carrick hails Kobbie Mainoo
One of the biggest positives, outside of results, from Carrick’s arrival is the revival of Kobbie Mainoo in the midfield for United.
Paul Scholes is thrilled to see Mainoo back in the team and playing well, and he will only get better having missed a lot of development due to Amorim.
Kobbie Mainoo during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in 2026 in London, England.
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However, Carrick thinks Mainoo still has what it takes to be an elite player.
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Speaking with Sky Sports ahead of the game against Fulham, Carrick admitted one thing he really likes about Mainoo.
“I like the way Kobbie takes the ball. I think there’s a big part of being a footballer and being the top player is being able to cope with the environment.
“He’s come in at such a young age and played some big games in the Euros for England and for Manchester United, and playing a big part in those games. So just being able to cope, first off, is a huge thing, and he’s proved he can cope.”
Mainoo’s experience for England is often forgotten, but when at his best, he is a starter for England, which could mean a late charge toward the squad ahead of the World Cup in June.
Carrick could bring new heights to Mainoo’s career, and in hindsight, the 12 months of rest under Amorim might actually help the midfielder with longevity in his career.
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Michael Carrick is taking a special interest in midfielders for Manchester United
Mainoo is probably one of the first names on Carrick’s team sheet right now, which is a massive positive considering his evident quality.
Against City, Mainoo’s performance instantly proved why Amorim was sacked, while showing Carrick could be a success.
In training this week, Carrick was spotted in a club media video working with his midfield department.
Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, and Mainoo were all getting special attention, with Tyler Fletcher being the fourth midfielder.
Having a legendary midfielder as a manager can only benefit all of them, but particularly Mainoo and Fletcher.
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