Chukwuemelie🐐

Carrick was a world-class #6 himself. He built his rep on positioning, passing, controlling tempo. That's exactly Mainoo's game. Carrick's impact since January: best PPG in the league at 2.25, Bruno back at #10, United playing direct, front-foot football. If anyone can develop Mainoo into a 10-year United captain, it's Carrick. In Carrick's 4-2-3-1, Mainoo is the progressive 8. So we need a proper #6 next to him. Not another Ugarte - we need a holder who can actually pass. Think Casemiro but younger, or a Rice/Baleba type. He's not a "prospect" anymore. He's our base. On the ball.Press-resistant like you wouldn't believe. 3-4 players around him and he'll still take a touch, roll his hips, and glide out. Carries the ball 5-10 yards every time he gets it. That breaks lines without a pass. Off the ball:Reads danger well for his age. 2.1 tackles, 1.8 interceptions per 90 when fit. Engine: Covers 11-12km a game. Carrick built his career on exactly what Mainoo does best: Carrick was never the fastest, but he was always in the right spot. He's already got Mainoo dropping 5 yards deeper to receive, not getting caught. Tempo: Carrick's United since Jan play fast, but controlled. Mainoo sets that tempo. Bruno's spoken about how Carrick tells Mainoo "you dictate, I'll follow". Trust: Carrick made him undroppable at 20. No loan, no "earn it for 3 years". If you're good enough, you're old enough. That's the Class of 92 rule.