Manchester United suffered a 1-0 defeat to 10-man Manchester City at Old Trafford in the Premier League yesterday.
Elliot Anderson featured in the Manchester derby for the first time since completing his big-money move to City this summer.
Despite being on the opposite side, the City midfielder was quick to shower praise on Kobbie Mainoo after the final whistle.
He said (via Manchester Evening News): “It was great. It was a good battle. He’s a top, top player, you know, and it’s always tough playing against Kobbie, but yeah, he’s a real good player and a real nice guy.”
United had been keen to sign Anderson but eventually conceded defeat after learning that Nottingham Forest would demand more than £100 million to sanction his departure.
Mainoo was let down by his teammates
The 21-year-old was comfortably the standout player for United yesterday.
He made several progressive passes and also hit the post with a stunning effort from outside the box.
He looked particularly dangerous alongside Youri Tielemans, but his influence inevitably faded after Carrick surprisingly decided to withdraw the Belgian captain in the second half.
There had been plenty of anticipation surrounding the midfield battle between Anderson and Mainoo, with United fans eager to see which youngster would claim the bragging rights.
Unfortunately for the home supporters, the final result left little for them to celebrate.
It is already clear that Mainoo has improved several aspects of his game. He is able to switch play quickly and has also developed physically.
Carrick undoubtedly has a gem on his hands, but even Mainoo cannot be expected to carry the weight of the entire team on his shoulders.
United will next face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
An early exit from the competition would only pile further pressure on the 45-year-old head coach.
Stats from Fotmob.com