Michael Carrick has ensured Kobbie Mainoo stays at Manchester United, thwarting Arsenal’s summer transfer ambitions. The 21-year-old midfielder signed a new long-term contract extending until 2031, valued at £150,000 per week—or £7.8 million annually—eliminating any possibility of a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Mainoo’s Commitment to United
Speculation about Mainoo’s future intensified during Ruben Amorim’s tenure as head coach, but it subsided after Carrick assumed interim charge. Sources indicate Arsenal explored a deal if Mainoo became available this summer. However, the fresh agreement solidifies his position at Old Trafford.
Carrick Restores Mainoo’s Starting Role
Carrick has revitalized Mainoo’s career, reinstating him as a regular starter. Across Carrick’s 14 games in charge, Mainoo completed 90 minutes in 12 matches, played 76 minutes in another, and missed only the loss to Leeds United due to injury.
Prior to Carrick’s arrival in January, Mainoo had not started a single Premier League game this season. Since then, he has featured in the starting XI for every top-flight match when fit.
Key Moment Against Liverpool
Mainoo netted the decisive goal in Manchester United’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Liverpool, securing Champions League qualification. Post-match, he credited Carrick’s influence.
“He’s [Carrick] played a huge part,” Mainoo told Sky Sports. “The confidence in not just me but all the players. You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch. That’s what we showed today.”
Remaining Fixtures
United face three final games: hosting Nottingham Forest, followed by away trips to Sunderland and Brighton, wrapping up the campaign this month.
