Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Kobbie Mainoo is establishing himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League this season.
In a summer focused on Manchester United’s midfield rebuild, it is Kobbie Mainoo who is standing out as the best midfielder in Michael Carrick’s squad.
Mainoo was outstanding against Everton both in and out of possession. He recorded his first goal contribution of the season by assisting Bryan Mbeumo’s opener.
When United were shopping for midfielders, Elliot Anderson was the top choice, followed by Mateus Fernandes. United missed out on both, but Mainoo is outperforming them in the Premier League.
Everton v Manchester United - Premier League 2026/27
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Getty Images
Kobbie Mainoo is dominating Premier League statistics
After a summer in which Mainoo was overlooked with England at the World Cup, it seems as though he has started the 2026/27 season with a point to prove.
As pointed out by Statman Dave on X, Mainoo is winning possession at a better rate than any other player in the Premier League this season.
Specifically, Mainoo has won possession 10.11 times per 90 minutes played in the Premier League this season.
Mainoo has been showcasing his much-improved defensive work rate this season.
United’s interest in Anderson, in particular, was because of his elite duelling ability, but Mainoo is proving early on this season that he is one of the best in the division in that area.
Everton v Manchester United - Premier League 2026/27
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Kobbie Mainoo is stepping up in 2026/27
Last season, Mainoo enjoyed a resurgence of form under Carrick as he returned to the starting XI.
This season, Mainoo is now 21 years old and is quickly becoming a senior player in this United squad.
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Despite the arrival of Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba, it is Mainoo who has made himself the first name on the teamsheet in midfield.
A strong partnership between Mainoo and Tielemans is forming, but Carrick will have to rotate as the games come thick and fast in Europe this season.