Michael Carrick backs Kobbie Mainoo for breakout season at Manchester United | OneFootball

Michael Carrick has backed Kobbie Mainoo to enjoy a breakout season at Manchester United, praising the midfielder after the 5-2 win over Ipswich and in the wake of a £155 million midfield overhaul.

The arrivals of Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have raised competition for places. "I think the competition's a positive thing," said Carrick. He was speaking to the Manchester Evening News.

Mainoo’s display answered doubts after his 2022-23 breakthrough, and followed a summer watching England’s World Cup campaign without playing a minute under Thomas Tuchel in North America. "He wants to learn, is hungry to learn, wants more all the time, which is great."

He also impressed in a deeper holding role against Ipswich, screening the back four and showing he can handle Premier League defensive duties after earlier scrutiny from former coach Ruben Amorim.

Maintaining consistency is the next step as he fends off Baleba and the returning Mason Mount, who is nearing full fitness. "That's going to give him a great chance to fulfil his potential, which obviously he's got an awful lot of."

Source: Goal.com

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