‘You Love Kobbie’: Mainoo Proves His Worth at Manchester United

Kobbie Mainoo is once again at the heart of Manchester United’s midfield, proving exactly why so many were baffled by Ruben Amorim’s refusal to use him earlier this season.

Back in December, Amorim shrugged off criticism by quipping, “You love Kobbie”, after choosing not to bring the England international on in a 1-1 draw against West Ham. The comment became symbolic of his disconnect with both the fans and the talent at his disposal.

Yet under Michael Carrick, Mainoo has not just returned — he has thrived.

The 20-year-old has started four consecutive matches, including the 2-0 win over Tottenham, where he delivered a pinpoint pass in the build-up to Bryan Mbeumo’s opener. That level of composure and spatial awareness has reignited comparisons with Carrick himself — subtle but influential.

“Yes, there’s no doubt,” Carrick said when asked if Mainoo had returned to his 2023-24 form, where he scored in the FA Cup final and started in England’s Euro 2024 final.

Despite only having seven goals and five assists in 90 appearances, Mainoo’s intelligence, timing, and ability to dictate tempo set him apart — traits Carrick once described as essential to a “great pass.”

From Bench to Engine Room

Mainoo was benched for every Premier League match this season under Amorim, a decision that reportedly frustrated many within United’s academy setup. Interim boss Darren Fletcher offered a lifeline before Carrick’s appointment saw Mainoo reinstated fully.

United fans, who have long championed his talent, saw the change as vindication. A social media post during the Spurs win mocking Amorim’s earlier stance gained 25,000 likes, underlining the player’s popularity.

England Dreams Not Over

Mainoo’s rejuvenated form also reopens the door for an England recall. Though he featured in six matches during Euro 2024, he hasn’t played for the Three Lions since last September, after missing the October call-up.

With Thomas Tuchel now at the helm and March friendlies vs Uruguay and Japan looming, Mainoo has just five games to force his way back in. A key loan move to Napoli collapsed in the summer, but he now has another chance to impress.

England’s midfield competition remains fierce, with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott all in contention — and reportedly on United’s radar for summer recruitment.

“We have to be careful about putting so much on his shoulders,” Carrick cautioned. “He’s still learning… people forget how young he still is.”

But make no mistake — Mainoo is back, and he’s reminding everyone why they ever “loved Kobbie” in the first place.