Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has explained how Michael Carrick has already made a ‘strong decision’ at Manchester United.
Michael Carrick is set to take charge of his second match as Manchester United’s head coach since his return, with a daunting Premier League test away at Arsenal on Sunday.
United sent a strong message under Carrick last weekend, delivering an impressive performance to defeat Manchester City 2–0 at Old Trafford. The victory could have been even more decisive, with three further goals ruled out for offside.
It was one of the most assured displays fans have seen in some time and has fuelled renewed confidence ahead of the trip to North London.
Arsenal sit seven points clear at the summit of the Premier League, though their momentum stalled slightly following a scoreless draw with Nottingham Forest.
With United pushing hard for Champions League qualification, Sunday’s showdown is shaping up to be a fierce and high-stakes contest.
Henry: How Carrick has already made a ‘strong decision’ at United
Ahead of that clash against Arsenal, Thierry Henry has been speaking about Carrick’s start to life at Old Trafford and one ‘strong’ decision he has already made.
The Premier League legend has detailed how Carrick immediately putting Kobbie Mainoo back into the team was a bold move, especially since he has not started any league fixtures beforehand.
It was a decision that Henry believes paid off as Mainoo was the ‘best player out there’ during the 2-0 win over Manchester City.
“One thing I like is that he’s been at United a few days but the players were already celebrating with him against City,” Henry told Betway.
“He also took a strong decision by putting Kobbie Mainoo back in. The guy didn’t play all season and he was the best player out there, for me.
“I know how it is to not play for a very long time, and then you have to stop City playing. Casemiro left the field with cramps and Mainoo was still running.
“At that level, when you’re missing minutes and match fitness, it’s tough, especially against City.”
United want to offer Mainoo new contract
Mainoo is expected to start the game against Arsenal this weekend too and there are also talks about United offering him a new contract.
The youngster’s improved deal has been stalled over the last 18 months. He is still on around £30,000-a-week, which is the contract he was on when he broke through under Erik ten Hag.
Read More: Manchester United to hold ‘internal meeting’ with Michael Carrick about sudden January transfer
Ruben Amorim’s exit appears to have been the catalyst for this change. Carrick clearly rates the player and United want to tie him down to a new deal.
Mainoo will be hoping to keep showing his best form, and a top display against Arsenal would definitely be brilliant to see.
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