Michael Carrick praises Ruben Amorim’s ‘thorn’ ahead of MU’s clash with Arsenal

Coach Michael Carrick has praised Kobbie Mainoo’s “quality,” also admitting he genuinely enjoys working with the young Manchester United midfielder.

Before Amorim was dismissed at Manchester United in early January, Mainoo struggled to secure playing time at the Premier League club. The Portuguese strategist did not want Mainoo to leave United but made it clear that the midfielder was not a top priority in the midfield selection order. Conversely, the former Sporting CP coach also confirmed that the Manchester United academy product is the “future” of the club.

However, when Carrick was appointed as interim successor, he immediately started Mainoo in Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over their fierce rivals Manchester City last weekend. Since then, Carrick has continued to shower praise on the England international.

Speaking ahead of the match against Arsenal, the former United player said he has known Mainoo for over five years and has watched the player develop into a promising talent. Carrick emphasized the importance of academy players like Mainoo being promoted to the first team and praised the young midfielder’s individual quality.

He told reporters: “I truly enjoy working with Kobbie. I’ve known him since he was very young. I started working with him when he was about 13 or 14, while I was studying coaching qualifications. This club needs young players grown from the academy who understand the club’s meaning—not just for the players or the squad, but for the club and the fans. This is something we need to grasp and build upon, and Kobbie is a prime example.

Rising so quickly means he has had to play in very big matches and make an impact, which says a lot about his personal qualities, character, and ability to handle pressure. A career has its ups and downs; sometimes things go different ways, but we saw last week what he brought. That was fantastic. He’s quite composed, not overly expressive, but you can see through his play and presence on the pitch that he’s enjoying the game, and seeing that is truly wonderful.”

After the convincing win over Manchester City, Manchester United face a bigger challenge this Sunday when they visit Premier League leaders Arsenal. Carrick understands his players will face a tough test against the “Gunners,” but he is eager to take on the challenge against Mikel Arteta’s side.

He added: “I’m really looking forward to this match. It’s a major challenge. They are a very strong team. That’s obvious and needs no further explanation. They have many strengths in their style of play. This is a big test. They are where they are for a reason, both in the Premier League and the Champions League. We are fully aware of that and won’t underestimate them. We feel we are in a good state and approach the game with enthusiasm. This is where we want to be, bringing positive energy and passion, but we also know it won’t be easy.”

Manchester United, currently fifth in the Premier League, will face Arsenal on Sunday afternoon before starting February with a home match against Fulham. If the “Red Devils” can achieve positive results in these two games, they could soon be back in the top four.

The former Middlesbrough coach added: “We have our own ideas about what needs to be done and the path to achieve it. Credit must be given to Arsenal; they are in a very strong position in team building and recruitment. Mikel deserves recognition for that; he has done a fantastic job. We also have our own direction on what needs to be done and what is required to reach our goals, and that is what we are focused on.”

The match between Arsenal and Manchester United will take place at 11:30 PM tonight (January 25).