Michael Carrick's Prophetic Words Signal Major Revolution Brewing at Manchester United
Michael Carrick's designation as Manchester United's head coach, rather than manager, could represent a significant chance for Kobbie Mainoo to revitalize his Old Trafford journey—judging by Carrick's previous remarks about the academy product.
Following a meteoric rise that saw him net the decisive goal in the 2024 FA Cup final merely six months after his Premier League debut and subsequently play a crucial part as England advanced to the European Championship final that summer, Mainoo has faced difficult periods since then.
The young player's sophomore campaign was disrupted by persistent injuries, before losing favor under United boss Ruben Amorim. This resulted in Mainoo failing to start any Premier League matches in 2025–26 prior to the Portuguese coach's dismissal this month.
Mainoo would likely have entered the starting lineup against Burnley in league action when Darren Fletcher assumed temporary charge, had he not been recently returning from injury.
The 20-year-old subsequently started when United met Brighton & Hove Albion in Sunday's FA Cup encounter, featuring for sixty minutes with carefully managed playing time. Despite the loss, his performance was noteworthy.
Carrick discussed Mainoo extensively during a July conversation with former colleague Rio Ferdinand on Ferdinand's YouTube platform. That discussion revealed Carrick's high regard for the Stockport-born player, which appears promising for Mainoo's prospects.
"During a young player's initial two, three, four seasons, there will inevitably be periods where challenges arise and things don't unfold as expected," Carrick commented regarding Mainoo's difficulties, which intensified in subsequent months after this interview.
"However, that doesn't indicate you won't reach your potential. Your skill and talent, combined with consistent effort, will eventually flourish. If you possess the ability, it's there. He has demonstrated he possesses it."
Carrick: Persistence Will Guide Mainoo Forward
Carrick: Persistence Will Guide Mainoo Forward
Elaborating on his admiration for Mainoo, Carrick stated: "He brings refreshing energy in how he receives possession, advances play and engages opponents. He possesses the ability to play, dribble and distribute. These qualities remain constant, though they may fluctuate periodically.
"I experienced this—during my third season at West Ham—my form was poor. I lost my England place and couldn't find consistency. I'm not suggesting [Mainoo] is struggling similarly, his situation differs somewhat. But numerous players encounter such phases. It requires determination to persevere and maintain belief—it's challenging at times. You need support from others who trust and believe in your abilities."
This indicates Carrick will focus on collaborating with Mainoo to maximize his potential.
"We tend to make hasty judgments from season to season, or every six months, declaring someone 'capable' or 'incapable', but we [25 years ago] received considerably more patience and development time," the incoming United leader observed.
Carrick's Assessment of Mainoo's Optimal Team Position
Carrick's Assessment of Mainoo's Optimal Team Position
In Carrick's opinion, Mainoo is "more of an offensive player" rather than a deep-sitting or defensive midfielder.
"I don't envision him as a defensive midfielder, he belongs in the advanced line with greater creative freedom," the 44-year-old explained. "There are various approaches to defending. You can defend from higher positions, but deep defensive work alongside center-backs is entirely different.
"I see him operating in more advanced areas with liberty to receive possession and generate opportunities. I believe he has tremendous potential. I genuinely rate him highly, he simply requires patience and another opportunity.
"For a club to possess a player developed through their academy, who understands and embodies the institution, Man United must embrace that connection. You need players like [Mainoo]—let's support him, develop him, remain loyal to him. There's certainly a role for him here."