One Manchester United player is reaping the instant rewards of Michael Carrick era

Kobbie Mainoo asked to leave Old Trafford last summer and was wanted by Napoli this month, but he started the Manchester derby as Michael Carrick backed the midfielder

Some people believe Ruben Amorim didn't deserve to be sacked. But in the space of just one game, Kobbie Mainoo has proved that Manchester United made the right decision for once.

Amorim's decision to neglect one of the best young midfielders in English football felt bizarre and criminal in equal measure. And in the end it became self defeating. Because he no longer has a job at Old Trafford, while Mainoo does.

His treatment of Mainoo left him so disillusioned he wanted to leave United. His hometown club. The one he grew up supporting. The one which scouted him at the age of six, and signed him at the age of seven.

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Mainoo had spent the last few weeks speaking to Napoli. He had seen how former team-mate Scott McTominay had taken his game to new levels with the Italian champions. And he was keen to do the same for himself, under the guidance of Antonio Conte.

He knew Amorim was ruining his season - not to mention his chances of being named in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for this summer's World Cup. But Napoli can forget about signing Mainoo now because Mainoo has forgotten about making a move to the Amalfi coast. Home is where his heart is again.

Mainoo reminded everyone what a top class player he is during United's thumping of Manchester City at Old Trafford. The one who held United together at times in his breakthrough season. The one who started for England in the final of Euro 2024.

Mainoo was the epitome of composure and class in a high-octane game. He was the outstanding midfielder on the pitch, one which also included Ballon d'Or winner Rodri. To such an extent that Rodri was insignificant from start to finish. All of this was achieved in a game which was his first league start of the season.

It's understood Michael Carrick spoke to Mainoo after being appointed interim manager. He told him he would be part of his plans between now and the end of the season. He told him to focus on re-establishing himself in the team. He told him to prove Amorim wrong. And Mainoo has done.

Amorim's stubbornness cost Mainoo half a season of football. While it might be too late for him to impress Tuchel enough to take him to North America. But at a time when United are crying out for some genuine quality in midfield, but seem unwilling to send the money to get it, the fallen giants will feel like a new signing has arrived shown up again.

Mainoo will not turn 21 until April, and has a long career ahead of him. And United should make sure the bulk of it is with them - whoever happens to be the manager.

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