Michael Carrick has moved to reassure Manchester United supporters that Kobbie Mainoo has returned from the World Cup in a positive frame of mind despite his frustration at not getting onto the pitch for England.
Kobbie Mainoo was part of England’s squad but didn’t feature during the tournament. That could have been difficult for the young midfielder, particularly after his growing importance at club level. Michael Carrick, though, says the 21-year-old has put the disappointment behind him and has already settled back into life at United.
“He (Mainoo)’s been great since he’s come back,” Carrick said.
Carrick understands Mainoo’s frustration
Carrick knows better than most what it feels like to be involved with England but desperate for more playing time.
The United boss admitted there are two sides to the experience. Players should appreciate being involved at a major tournament, but they also naturally want to contribute on the pitch.
“I know from the outside you can look in and everyone goes, ‘You should be happy to be there’. And there’s a part of that, and not taking it for granted, for sure.
“But there’s the other part of as a human being and then as a professional, you want to be playing and so I’ve been there, so I understand it.”
Carrick revealed that he encouraged Kobbie Mainoo to enjoy the experience while remaining prepared for his opportunity.
“What did he say to him? Try and appreciate being there as much as you can as well, and try and make the most of it, but then keep doing the right thing and being ready.”
That opportunity ultimately never arrived for Kobbie Mainoo, but Carrick believes the midfielder handled the situation well.
“In the end, it worked out as it is, but then he comes back and he’s quite happy to be home with us, and he’s been great this week, come straight back into it.”
Kobbie Mainoo ready for big United season
Carrick was also asked whether he found it surprising that England manager Thomas Tuchel didn’t give Mainoo any minutes during the tournament.
The United boss wasn’t interested in questioning another manager’s selection decisions.
“Listen, everyone’s got their opinion. There’s a whole squad of good players, that’s why it’s the World Cup and it’s England, so it’s not for me to say that.”
For Carrick, the most important thing is where Mainoo stands now.
“The biggest thing for me is Kobbie’s in a really good place. I think he feels that, he’s come back and he’s come home and he’s ready for a big season.”
That will be welcome news for Manchester United supporters. Mainoo now has the chance to put the frustration of the World Cup behind him and focus on establishing himself as an important part of Carrick’s plans.
The midfielder has already returned to training and appears ready to get back into competitive action.
“And seeing him this week, it’s been great to have him back and get back on the pitch on Saturday.”
For United, having a motivated Mainoo heading into a demanding season could prove hugely important. The World Cup may not have gone the way he wanted, but Carrick insists the midfielder has returned to Manchester ready to make his mark.
