Forget Fernandes: Carrick left in awe of one Man Utd star who made seven defensive contributions vs Chelsea

Manchester United took three points from Stamford Bridge against Chelsea on Saturday evening.

Matheus Cunha netted the only goal of the game in the 43rd minute, capping off a moment of brilliance orchestrated by club captain Bruno Fernandes.

While Fernandes and Ayden Heaven impressed, it was Kobbie Mainoo who truly stole the spotlight with a commanding display.

United head coach Michael Carrick praised Mainoo after the game.

He said (via ManUtd.com): “I thought that was the best Kobbie’s played, certainly since I’ve been back here.

“To step up and put so many phases or sides to his game tonight. I thought he looked so composed and so calm, he had a real presence about him, defended well.

“It’s not easy when you’ve got good players around you and it was a good battle between him and Cole Palmer.”

Kobbie Mainoo showed why he is rated so highly

Mainoo was absent from the 2-1 defeat to Leeds last Monday due to a late injury.

Carrick confirmed on Friday that the youngster had returned to training, though he still needed to pass a late fitness test ahead of the Chelsea clash.

The 20-year-old responded in style, delivering a sublime all-round performance against the Blues.

He played in a deeper role, even drifting behind Casemiro at times.

This tactical change was to ensure that United progressed the ball forward through central areas in the absence of Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire.

When the Red Devils were in Chelsea’s half, Mainoo often took advanced positions to form passing triangles with Cunha and Fernandes.

He ended the game with 91% passing accuracy, showing how efficient he was with the ball at his feet.

The 20-year-old was always available to receive a pass and also impressed with his defensive work rate.

He won all three tackles and made seven defensive contributions.

Carrick admitted that this was the best performance from Mainoo during his spell. In our opinion, this was his best performance of the season.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .