Kobbie Mainoo has started every game under Michael Carrick's interim management, rejuvenating his Manchester United career after being frozen out under Ruben Amorim. The midfielder now has a genuine chance of making England's World Cup squad this summer.
Carrick, who first worked with Mainoo when the youngster was 13 or 14, has been keen not to overload him. 'I've been really conscious of not giving him an awful lot – a couple of little pointers, a bit of positional things – but trust in what he is. He's a fantastic footballer,' Carrick told the BBC.
Travis Binnion, who coached Mainoo to FA Youth Cup glory and now works as a first-team coach under Carrick, has also been instrumental. Binnion previously described Mainoo as 'composed, brave and elite level with the ball,' and his presence has provided a familiar support network.
Mainoo has not been called up to an England squad for over a year since starting in the Euro 2024 final. However, a return to form under Carrick has put him back in contention, with the World Cup a huge motivation for the 19-year-old.
'He found his rhythm quickly and his natural flow,' Carrick added after Mainoo's recent performances. 'He's got a lot of areas to improve, but he's doing really well.'
