Kobbie Mainoo sends heartfelt message to Michael Carrick after England World Cup call-up

Kobbie Mainoo has credited Manchester United manager Michael Carrick with transforming his fortunes and helping him secure a place in England’s World Cup squad.

The midfielder revealed he is “very grateful” to Carrick after being included in Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad, admitting his international dream may not have become reality without the faith shown in him by the Old Trafford boss.

Mainoo welcomes Carrick’s permanent appointment

Manchester United recently confirmed Carrick as their permanent manager after a successful spell in interim charge following the departure of Ruben Amorim.

The former United captain has signed a deal running until 2028, a decision that has reportedly been warmly received throughout the dressing room.

Speaking from England’s World Cup training camp in Florida, Mainoo explained how delighted the players were to see Carrick rewarded with a long-term contract.

“We were very happy with it, obviously, we were behind the manager from the start,” Mainoo told talkSPORT.

“So many great performances under him, and I love the way he coaches and manages me personally in the team as well.

I think everyone in the squad can agree with that, so when he officially got the job, we were all so happy.”

Carrick helped revive his season

Just a few months ago, Mainoo’s place in England’s World Cup plans appeared far from certain.

Under former manager Amorim, the midfielder struggled for opportunities and found himself on the fringes of the first team. He failed to start a single Premier League match during the Portuguese coach’s tenure and was reportedly considering his future at the club.

Everything changed following Carrick’s arrival in January.

The 21-year-old quickly became a key figure in United’s midfield and was one of the first names on the teamsheet during the club’s dramatic resurgence.

Reflecting on Carrick’s influence, Mainoo said:

“Definitely, and I told him that I was very grateful.

Because if he hadn’t put me on the pitch, then I wouldn’t have been here so, I’m always grateful to him for that.”

Key role in Manchester United revival

Mainoo played a major role in United’s impressive run under Carrick, missing just one Premier League match during the manager’s 17-game league stint.

His performances helped propel the club into the top three and secure a return to Champions League football.

One of the defining moments of the campaign came at Old Trafford when Mainoo scored the winning goal in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Liverpool, a result that ultimately proved crucial in sealing United’s place among Europe’s elite once again.

A manager players want to fight for

Carrick’s impact has extended beyond results on the pitch.

Mainoo has previously spoken about the strong bond that exists between the squad and their manager, highlighting the belief and unity Carrick has created since taking charge.

The midfielder recently described the atmosphere inside the dressing room by saying players “want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.”

Those comments underline the remarkable turnaround at Old Trafford and help explain why Carrick’s permanent appointment has been greeted with such enthusiasm.

Now preparing for the biggest tournament of his career with England, Mainoo will hope to repay that faith on the world stage after a season that has completely transformed his trajectory at club and international level.