As one phase concludes, another begins. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo have not been the midfield duo for Manchester United this season—especially with Ruben Amorim opting not to start Mainoo in the Premier League. This won’t last, particularly after the Brazilian announced that he would leave at season’s end.
Before Amorim’s departure, it appeared Mainoo might have been on his way out sooner, with reported loan interest from Napoli. However, in a surprising twist that signified Amorim’s growing unease, he suddenly labeled the Mancunian as the “future” of United.
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This is now the immediate focus for Michael Carrick. His role is temporary; his task is to lead the club through the season and secure a Champions League spot. A tactical shift was evident from his first game, culminating in a strong 2-0 win against Manchester City using a 4-2-3-1 setup, notably placing Bruno Fernandes back in his classic No 10 role, alongside Casemiro and Mainoo as his No 8.
The duo complemented each other well. Contrary to initial perceptions that Mainoo was a defensive midfielder, he actually excels in passing play, making him a good fit to partner with one. Carrick likely appreciates those qualities, drawing from his own experiences as a deep-lying midfielder and the insights gained during his coaching journey.
Upon returning to United, it had only been four years since Carrick’s departure, and the list of players who overlapped with him during his caretaker stint in 2021 is limited to the likes of Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Diogo Dalot, although he had managed Mainoo at junior levels. His re-inclusion of Mainoo feels like a strategic move, signaling intent and confidence.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with Kobbie; I’ve known him since he was quite young,” Carrick shared. “I think I started working with him when he was 13 or 14, during my early coaching badge journey.”
Kobbie Mainoo excelled in a three-man midfield against Manchester City (Manchester United/Getty)
While Amorim didn’t utilize some homegrown talent like Marcus Rashford or Mainoo effectively, Carrick values their role as central to United’s identity.
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“This club needs young players to emerge and become foundational to its success, carrying the weight of what it means for the players, the squad, the club, and the supporters,” he emphasized. “We must embrace that and continue to build on it. Kobbie is a prime example of this rapid ascent, playing in significant matches and influencing those games at such a young age, which speaks volumes about his character and ability to handle pressure.”
Mainoo’s rise has been swift, and he even started in the Euro 2024 final while still a teenager after impressing in the semi-final. Although 2025 might feel unfulfilled, it suggests great promise for 2026. Carrick, having faced relegation with West Ham at 21, understands setbacks; his own path—though meandering—led to success.
Michael Carrick gives instructions in Man United training as Mainoo watches on (Manchester United/Getty)
“A career is filled with ups and downs, and occasionally things take unexpected turns, but we witnessed last week how much Kobbie has to offer,” Carrick reflected. “It was wonderful to see. He typically has a serious demeanor, but in that game, he really showcased his skills and enjoyed himself. It was fantastic to witness.”
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If Carrick’s remarks carry a hint of self-reflection—given his calm nature—there are shared traits among both players. Each has a unique ability to orchestrate the game, and neither fits the mold of a hyper-aggressive midfielder.
However, their talent in reading games could prove beneficial. Carrick’s coaching journey began with a meeting with another midfielder-turned-manager, Pep Guardiola. Now he faces yet another, Mikel Arteta.
Mainoo will face off against Euro 2024 teammate Declan Rice on Sunday (Getty)
For Mainoo, Sunday’s match at the Emirates Stadium will be a bit of a homecoming, as he’ll face off against his Euro 2024 partner, Declan Rice, who is now in Arsenal’s midfield. If Erik ten Hag had his way, Rice might have joined United—but instead, Arsenal signed him for £105 million.
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Under Arteta, Arsenal now boasts a highly balanced midfield featuring Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi. In contrast, United’s midfield appeared unbalanced during Ten Hag’s final 14 months, often outnumbered due to Amorim’s preference for a 3-4-3 formation.
Currently, Carrick’s midfield setup looks to include Mainoo and Casemiro, with Fernandes just ahead. The makeup of the midfield—and likely the manager—will change next season, but the return of Carrick, as a previous United midfielder, may greatly benefit Mainoo, a promising talent.