Kobbie Mainoo: Man United star’s stats vs Aston Villa prove Ruben Amorim had gone mad
Kobbie Mainoo was in fine form again for Manchester United on Sunday as they beat Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils emerged 3-1 winners to take a huge step towards Champions League qualification, with Casemiro, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko getting the goals.
Ross Barkley had equalised for the visitors, but the scores would be level for just seven minutes before Michael Carrick’s team were back ahead.
Sunday’s win has seen a five-point buffer opened up to fifth-placed Liverpool, with only a seven-point gap now standing between the Manchester clubs.
Man United’s form has improved immeasurably since Carrick arrived as an interim manager, and he is expected to be handed the job permanently in the summer.
⚽ Man United Matchday ⚽
Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Manchester United fixture.
VISIT THE MATCH HUBKobbie Mainoo stuns vs Aston Villa
Football Insider exclusively revealed this month that Man United are confident Mainoo will sign a new contract at Old Trafford in the coming months.
There had been massive speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future while he was under the management of Ruben Amorim.
The former Man United manager had taken a dislike towards the 20-year-old and refused to start him in the Premier League this season.
| Kobbie Mainoo | vs Aston Villa |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Accurate passes | 46/54 |
| Passes into the final third | 7 |
| Tackles | 2 |
| Clearances | 2 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
Less than two years ago, Mainoo had been starting for England in the final of the European Championships, but it looked as if he would be continuing his career away from Old Trafford.
Carrick’s arrival has changed that, however, with the 20-year-old starting his ninth consecutive Premier League game on Sunday.
He has been in impressive form since returning to the starting line-up, and his performance against Villa was no different.
Mainoo was everywhere for Man United, constantly mopping up attacks and getting his team’s own moves underway.
The England international made an outstanding eight recoveries on the day, completed two successful dribbles, created a chance, and won five of his eight duels.
Michael Carrick to be key to Mainoo future
Mainoo is under contract until 2027, with talks surrounding an extension set to continue this summer.
Man United are confident, but there is an inkling that the 20-year-old’s future may be directly tied to the decision that is made in the dugout this summer.
Mainoo’s career has been revitalised under Carrick, and he, among several other players, will be hoping to see the 44-year-old given the job permanently.
The interim manager is the overwhelming favourite, although Man United are hesitant to rush into any decision.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man United Insider Access
Get the full story from Old Trafford and Carrington with our dedicated expert hubs:
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Old Trafford.