Kobbie Mainoo has regained his place in the starting lineup under interim manager Michael Carrick after being frozen out under former manager Ruben Amorim. The 19-year-old midfielder had requested a loan move in the summer, but the club rejected it, according to multiple reports. Carrick praised Mainoo's resurgence, according to sources, saying he epitomises the club and that everyone is over the moon with his impending contract extension.
Mainoo's return to form has been a key factor in United's recent upturn, with his energy and composure in midfield providing a platform for the team's attacking play. His partnership with Bruno Fernandes has been particularly effective, with Fernandes producing his best form this season when playing alongside Mainoo, according to some reports. Paul Pogba advised Mainoo that playing time should be the primary consideration when weighing up his future, according to the Daily Mirror.
The advice comes as Mainoo's new deal nears completion, securing his immediate future at Old Trafford despite earlier uncertainty. Harry Maguire is close to signing a contract extension until 2027 with an option for one more year, Fabrizio Romano reported. The England international has been a mainstay in defense this season, and the new deal reflects the club's faith in his leadership and experience.
Manchester United plans to announce both Mainoo and Maguire's new contracts before the end of the season, Romano added. The double announcement would be a significant boost for the club as they push for a strong finish. Michael Carrick is serving as interim manager, according to multiple sources.
He has steadied the ship since taking over, with the team currently sitting third in the Premier League. Casemiro's departure from Manchester United is final, according to a report citing Carrick. The Brazilian midfielder's exit marks the end of an era, but Carrick has managed the transition smoothly, integrating younger talents like Mainoo into the squad.
Manchester United sits third in the Premier League, according to multiple reports. The team faces Liverpool in a standout match on Sunday, which Carrick described as one of his favourite games, according to sources. Victory against Liverpool would guarantee Champions League qualification with three games to spare, according to some reports.
The match is seen as a pivotal moment in the season, with the team's recent form under Carrick raising hopes of a top-four finish.