4-2-3-1: Carrick 'really like' one Man Utd star, set to be unleashed with 'freedom'
Manchester United have officially turned to a familiar face, naming Michael Carrick as caretaker head coach for the remainder of the 2025–26 season.
The five-time Premier League winner now faces a daunting 17-game sprint, with European qualification the primary target expected from his short-term reign.
Carrick was invited by Rio Ferdinand onto his YouTube podcast five months ago.
He made several interesting remarks over the hour-long podcast, but United supporters will be particularly interested in his thoughts on Kobbie Mainoo.
The 44-year-old said: “I think he is more of an attacker.
“I don’t see him as a holding midfielder. I think he’s probably that line above with that little bit more freedom.
“I see him playing a bit higher with that freedom, creating and taking the ball. I think he has a massive future, I really like him, I think he needs a bit of patience and a break again, [which] I’m sure he’ll get.”
Kobbie Mainoo must repay the faith
Carrick will take over the reins on a temporary basis after the brutal sacking of Ruben Amorim last week.
The Englishman looks to be on the same page as Amorim when it comes to highlighting Mainoo’s strengths.
However, the 20-year-old never got a fair opportunity under Amorim to prove himself.
Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League game this campaign but that could change on Saturday when Manchester City visit United.
Amorim previously argued that Mainoo lacked the positional discipline to operate as a lone holding midfielder.
Carrick could now unleash the academy product alongside Manuel Ugarte or Casemiro at the base of midfield.
He is expected to use a 4-2-3-1 system, opening the door for Casemiro, Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes to start together.
The England international must also be patient and focus fully on improving his game.
Breaking through from the academy is one challenge but staying relevant at Manchester United is an entirely different one.
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .