Kobbie Mainoo earns Carrick’s praise after Man United youngster lands new contract
By Luke Oluoch, May 1, 2026Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has heaped praise on academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo after the midfielder agreed to a new long-term deal at the club.
The English youngster signed a new contract that will extend his stay with Manchester United until June 2031.
Speaking on Friday, May 1, 2026, Carrick shared his elation, describing the youngster as a player who epitomises the club through both his immense talent and his work ethic.
Impressed
“I have been hugely impressed with Kobbie since I arrived. I’ve known him in different capacities, and he truly epitomises this football club: a young player coming through the academy who lives and breathes Manchester United,” Carrick said.
Carrick particularly extolled Mainoo’s performances in United’s last two games. Mainoo’s dominant displays have seen him anchor the midfield alongside Casemiro, providing vital cover for the backline.
This partnership has been central to United’s rich vein of form since Carrick took over in January; under his leadership, the club has won nine of its last 13 matches, drawing two and losing only two.
Mainoo’s brilliance
Mainoo came close to an assist in United’s midweek win over Brentford, threading the ball through multiple challenges before setting up Amad Diallo, whose shot was ultimately deflected out.
“He has been fantastic. He is constantly evolving, and for him to sign this new contract—everyone is over the moon with that, including me,” Carrick stated.
Generation talent
The Stockport-born midfielder is widely recognised as one of the best talents of his generation. He joined the club’s world-renowned Academy in 2014, having been associated with Manchester United since the age of six.
At just 21, the boyhood United fan has already made 98 appearances for the club, scoring the decisive goal in the 2024 Emirates FA Cup final and representing England in the Euro 2024 final.