Casemiro names Kobbie Mainoo as the future leader of Manchester United: ‘He is one of the best No.8’

Manchester United have managed to surprise, establishing themselves in third place in the Premier League. In this, Casemiro has been key, providing balance to the team. However, the Brazilian has chosen to put the spotlight on Kobbie Mainoo, who has become undisputed under Michael Carrick. Moreover, the veteran identified the Englishman as the future of the Red Devils, leading the team into a new era.

In an interview with Manchester United, Casemiro had nothing but praise for Kobbie Mainoo’s performance, hailing his promising future: “Kobbie is the present and the future. I think that he is one of the best No.8s and can be for that for the next 12 years… He is a player I really like. He always wants the ball. It is true that soccer can’t change your mentality but Kobbie demonstrated that he hasn’t changed his focus once.”

Although it seemed he was destined to leave the Red Devils, Michael Carrick’s arrival transformed him into a cornerstone of the team. At just 20 years old, Kobbie has established as the Red Devils’ midfield playmaker, shining alongside Casemiro. Furthermore, Mainoo enhances the offensive side of the game, serving as a brilliant playmaker who creates spaces in opposing defenses.

Manchester United reportedly secure Kobbie Mainoo renewal

At the start of the 2025–26 season, Kobbie Mainoo was relegated to the bench under Ruben Amorim. Not fitting into his lineup, the Englishman was considered a third or fourth option in the rotation. Because of this, the 20-year-old star was pushing for a move, as he was seeking consistent playing time. Now, Michael Carrick has made him undroppable at Manchester United, leading to reports that his renewal has been secured.

According to Fabrizio Romano via X, the Red Devils are close to finalizing Kobbie Mainoo’s contract renewal. With a deal running until 2027 plus an optional additional year, the Englishman had attracted interest from several clubs. Because of this, Manchester United have offered him a new contract until 2031, fending off any transfer interest, while granting him a salary increase and a key role in the sporting project.

Report: Red Devils target Elliot Anderson as partner for Mainoo

Manchester United have successfully established a solid central midfield partnership with Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. However, the Brazilian has decided to leave the team as a free agent. In light of this, the Red Devils are chasing midfield reinforcements ahead of the 2026–27 season. They have reportedly set their sights on Elliot Anderson, who has previously played alongside Mainoo in England.

According to Eduardo Burgos, via Diario AS, the Red Devils have considered signing Sandro Tonali or Bruno Guimarães. However, they believe that Elliot Anderson is the most straightforward option and the easiest to negotiate a transfer for. With this move, coach Michael Carrick would solidify a strong midfield, aiming to replicate his excellent performance from this season.