MANCHESTER: Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has described Kobbie Mainoo as the club’s “present and future” after the youngster signed a new contract.
Under former manager Ruben Amorim, Mainoo was previously linked with a move away when he struggled to find a place following competition with team captain Bruno Fernandes.
However, the 21-year-old player once again shone under Michael Carrick before signing a new contract until 2031 with a handsome salary increase.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, Casemiro praised Mainoo’s qualities.
“He is the present and future of this club,” said Casemiro.
According to Casemiro, Mainoo is more suitable to play as a number eight midfielder than the number five position.
“He loves the ball, needs the ball and rarely loses possession. He is strong and has high quality.
“But he needs consistency every game,” he said.
Casemiro is expected to leave United at the end of the season after four years with the club.
He also defended Carrick, who is now interim manager after replacing Amorim until the end of the season.
Carrick has successfully brought United back into contention and almost certainly qualified for the UEFA Champions League next season.
“For me he deserves to stay. The team is playing well and improving from game to game,” added Casemiro.
The former Real Madrid player also compared Carrick to experienced coach Carlo Ancelotti.
“He understands this club and knows what the players need because he himself has played at the highest level,” he added.
Casemiro also named Diogo Dalot and Fernandes as key influences in United’s dressing room.
However, he also praised veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton, who is considered to have played a big role in maintaining the team’s atmosphere.