Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has reasserted himself as a key player for the club, despite a summer of frustration where he did not play a single minute for England at the World Cup. The 21-year-old was an unused substitute throughout the tournament, including the semi-final exit against Argentina, and missed the third-place playoff due to an unspecified injury.
Following a late start to pre-season and a substitute appearance in United's opening defeat to Hull, Mainoo has been outstanding in subsequent matches against Ipswich, Everton, and Sabah in the Champions League. His recent performances have seen him attempt 211 passes and complete 201 in the last three games, demonstrating exceptional ball security. He also made 15 defensive contributions against Ipswich and Everton.
Manager Michael Carrick is expected to start Mainoo alongside Youri Tielemans and Bruno Fernandes in midfield for Sunday's derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford. This will see him face off against players like Elliot Anderson, Enzo Fernández, and Rayan Cherki.