Michael Carrick believes Manchester United are developing a strong midfield partnership between Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans after another encouraging performance.
The pair have been given more minutes together since the start of the season, and Michael Carrick is already seeing signs that their understanding is developing. United’s midfield options have also been boosted by the arrival of Andrey Santos and the return of Mason Mount.
Speaking after the game, Carrick praised the way all four midfielders contributed while highlighting the progress being made between Mainoo and Tielemans.
“I think all four midfielders tonight carried on the same way,” Carrick said. “Obviously, Mason [Mount] coming on at half-time, and it was great to get him back on the pitch after missing a short period of time, and Andrey [Santos] has settled in fantastically well.”
Michael Carrick impressed by midfield options
Mainoo and Youri Tielemans have played more minutes together than the other combinations, and Carrick feels that is beginning to show on the pitch.
“Kobbie and Youri [Tielemans] have played more minutes and you can see the understanding,” he said.
Michael Carrick was particularly pleased with Tielemans’ latest display, while Kobbie Mainoo has continued to produce consistent performances.
“I think Youri has settled in well and I thought he was really good tonight again. Kobbie’s just been really consistent all the way through, so we’ve got really good options.”
That depth could become increasingly important as United’s schedule gets busier. Rather than relying on one fixed midfield pairing, he now has several combinations to choose from depending on the opposition and circumstances.
“It’s good to see the understanding between all of them and we can call upon when we need to.”
