81 Passes! Manchester United Youngster Matches Carrick’s 12-Year Record

Manchester United’s 4-0 win over Sahab was not the only thing that caught attention; the number that really stood out to the data analysts was 81.

That was the number of passes completed by starting young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in the match. According to Opta statistics, it was the highest passing total by an English Manchester United player in the Champions League since Carrick recorded 89 passes against Olympiacos in February 2014. Mainoo was only eight passes away from matching the record held by his manager.

A comparison that is easy to overlook

Of course, some may argue that this statistic is misleading, because there have not been many English midfielders able to play for Manchester United in the Champions League since Carrick’s time. However, it still shows what kind of player Mainoo is and how efficient he can be when in possession. This ability will be something he must rely on if he wants to establish himself at Manchester United or keep his place in the team.

It is worth noting that Mainoo’s midfield partner in this match was summer signing Youri Tielemans.

89 passes 12 years ago, and 81 passes today

Carrick completed 89 passes against Olympiacos in February 2014, while Mainoo completed 81 in this match, a difference of only eight passes. The data released by Opta on Thursday evening placed the two players together in comparison.

For Mainoo, Carrick may be one of the most suitable mentors if he wants to develop into a midfielder who controls the rhythm of matches. Compared with Amorim, who previously often did not give him starting opportunities, his chances of securing a role under Carrick are clearly greater.

But there is still a £148 million obstacle ahead

The issue is that Manchester United invested heavily in midfield rebuilding this summer, bringing in three players: Tielemans, Andre Santos and Carlos Baleba, for a combined cost of £148 million. It will not be easy for Mainoo to establish his place in this completely new midfield setup.

However, Carrick will likely be on his side, as long as he does not mind his own niche passing record being challenged.

Bigger tests are still ahead, including the upcoming Manchester derby. Compared with a match against an opponent like Sahab, Mainoo needs to prove himself more in games of that level. He has done so before, and he is fully capable of doing it again.