Michael Carrick has been credited with blocking a potential transfer of Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United to Arsenal, after the midfielder signed a new long-term contract. The 21-year-old committed his future to United until 2031, ending speculation linking him with a move to the Emirates.
Arsenal had been monitoring Mainoo's situation amid reports of interest, but the new deal — reportedly worth £150,000 per week — has ended any prospect of a transfer. Carrick, who took over as interim head coach in January, restored Mainoo to the starting lineup, a move that proved crucial in convincing the player to stay.
Since Carrick's appointment, Mainoo has started every Premier League match he has been fit for, a stark contrast to his lack of league starts under previous boss Ruben Amorim. The midfielder has completed 90 minutes in 12 of the 14 matches Carrick has overseen, missing only one game through injury.
Mainoo scored the winning goal in United's 3-2 victory over Liverpool and praised Carrick's influence. 'He's played a huge part,' Mainoo said. 'The confidence in not just me but all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.'
United have three remaining fixtures this season, with Champions League football already secured after the Liverpool win. They face Nottingham Forest, Sunderland, and Brighton in their final matches.
