Kobbie Mainoo has excelled since coming back into the first-team fold under Michael Carrick
If Carlsberg did weeks, the last one would be right up there for Kobbie Mainoo: a new deal at his boyhood club and the decisive goal in front of a buoyant Stretford End against Liverpool to seal Champions League qualification.
Rewind five months, though, and that return looked improbable - as did Mainoo’s Manchester United career. He was linked with a move to Napoli, following in the footsteps of another academy graduate, Scott McTominay.
Under the previous manager, he was ousted from the starting lineup as Rúben Amorim insisted on Mainoo playing second fiddle to Fernandes, who is impossible to dislodge from the team, given his outstanding creative capabilities and leadership qualities.
Mainoo embodies United - it would have been a travesty to lose their most prized possession.
Mainoo unsung hero in United resurgence
Football is unpredictable, and that is why it is universally loved. Now under Michael Carrick, Mainoo is one of the first names on the team's sheet: the best example of how und
Carrick’s measured demeanour has been imperative for every player, but none more so than Mainoo - he has been given license to express himself.
From a United perspective, Mainoo has been central to everything good: a fearless, free-spirited connector who plays with composure beyond his years. His presence at No.6 elevates those around him, freeing Casemiro who is a formidable threat in both boxes, and Bruno Fernandes to thrive in his favoured No.10 role.
He has played a starring role against Chelsea, Brentford and Liverpool. He is too, a player for the big occasion. In his United career so far he has produced vital goals against Liverpool, Wolves, City, and Lyon.
Mainoo’s mentality must be praised
Despite the well deserved praise Mainoo has been receiving, he also reflected on the tough times he has endured at United, he said: “It was difficult, of course, any time you’re not playing football.
“I just tried to look forward as much as possible, keep working hard and keep my head down to get these things from it.”
His teammate, Diogo Dalot believes the hardship will benefit Mainoo, he said: “If I can be completely honest, I think it was good for him… In your career, you go through these moments - now he’ll look back and say, ‘I worked really hard, went through a difficult period and had to do better in training.’”
Mainoo has shown the value of patience and is now reaping the rewards.