Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has opened up about his admiration for Casemiro, who is set to depart the club at the end of the season, and revealed that World Cup conversations are off-limits as the team focuses on securing Champions League football.
Mainoo's Rise Under Carrick
Once frozen out of the starting eleven, the 21-year-old England international has become a key figure under manager Michael Carrick. He recently signed a lucrative five-year contract, cementing his future at Old Trafford. Mainoo has been a consistent presence in Carrick's squad despite facing an uncertain future under previous boss Ruben Amorim. With his long-term deal secured, he is expected to be a cornerstone of the midfield rebuild, with players like Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson linked to the club.
Casemiro's Imminent Departure
Casemiro, who is enjoying his best goalscoring season for United, will leave at the end of the campaign, ending his Premier League chapter. Mainoo, who grew up admiring the Brazilian, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside him.
"For me, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes and Tom Heaton are still role models in my life, especially on the football pitch and how they carry themselves," Mainoo told GQ Magazine. "It's important to have people you want to learn from, whether in football or off the pitch. When I was younger, the season before he joined, he was always in my FIFA team. To play with him and learn from him every day has been a blessing. It will definitely be emotional when he leaves because the impact he's had on my career has been amazing. I don't think he knows that."
Focus on Champions League, Not World Cup
With England set to compete in the 2026 World Cup under new manager Thomas Tuchel, Mainoo's strong form could earn him a spot in the squad. However, the midfielder insists that talk of the tournament is on hold as United push for a top-four finish. The Red Devils sit 10 points clear of sixth-placed Brentford, closing in on Champions League qualification.
"We've got a big end of the season and we're trying to finish as high as possible, so there's not much World Cup chat—it's more the task at hand," Mainoo said. "It's easy for others to look at the bigger picture, but the focus can't waver from the games in front of us because the Premier League is the hardest league in the world. Every team is dangerous. If we take our eye off the ball, you pay for it."
Mainoo's comments highlight the discipline within the squad as they aim to secure European football before considering international ambitions.
