Manchester United face a pivotal summer decision over how best to manage the development of Kobbie Mainoo. Yet as speculation mounts over midfield investment, the club already possesses the perfect partner for the academy product.
Mainoo's Resurgence Under Carrick
Since Michael Carrick took the reins in January, it has become abundantly clear just how vital Mainoo can be to this United project. The 21-year-old was curiously overlooked by Ruben Amorim throughout his Old Trafford tenure but has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence under interim manager Carrick.
Fernandes Thrives Alongside Mainoo
And it seems far from coincidental that Bruno Fernandes has produced his finest form this season when lining up alongside Mainoo. As such, preserving that partnership beyond this summer should rank among United's foremost priorities in the months ahead.
Of his 19 Premier League assists so far this season, Fernandes has registered the majority of those while Mainoo has also been on the pitch. That's even more impressive considering the England international has only truly been part of the fold since Carrick took charge a little more than three months ago.
Mainoo's Qualities Free Fernandes
Mainoo has been praised for his ability to retain possession and his passing precision, qualities that often fall to Fernandes when he's deployed in a deeper midfield role. Yet with Mainoo on the pitch, the Portuguese playmaker is free to direct his energy towards crafting more incisive chances as a more natural No. 10.
It's only since January that United have been able to rely on their preferred midfield trio of Fernandes, Mainoo and Casemiro. And while that's not to suggest the club shouldn't strengthen their midfield options this summer, it's plain for all to see who brings out the best in one another.
Casemiro's Departure Looms
Casemiro's departure inevitably necessitates at least one new signing given how pivotal he has become in recent months. That's on top of the uncertainty surrounding fringe players such as Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount.
Finding a successor to Casemiro of comparable quality will be an enormous challenge in itself. Many supporters would welcome the Brazilian staying at Old Trafford for at least one more season, but Carrick has made it abundantly clear his decision to leave is final.
Fernandes Future Uncertain
There have also been whispers surrounding Fernandes' future given sustained interest from Saudi Arabia and beyond. But as he stands on the brink of breaking the Premier League's all-time assist record, it has never been more apparent the club must hold on to their captain.
Mainoo Signs New Deal
Mainoo's future is at least secure after the youngster agreed fresh terms on a five-year contract at his boyhood club. His new deal includes a substantial pay rise to £120,000 per week, with an official announcement anticipated imminently.
That represents one piece of the midfield puzzle virtually resolved as United attempt to address the void left by Casemiro's departure. But when it comes to maximising Fernandes' impact, Mainoo has demonstrated just how vital he is to achieving that goal.
