Not only Bruno – 8/10 star made ‘enormous’ difference for Man Utd; They can’t do without him

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has once again proven how pivotal he is in Michael Carrick’s tactical jigsaw.The youngster didn’t make a single Premier League start this season under Ruben Amorim. On the contrary, he’s been omnipresent in the lineup since Michael Carrick’s appointment in mid-January.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe 20-year-old skipped Monday’s clash against Leeds United, which Man Utd ended up losing 1-2, but made a glorious return to action on Saturday at Stamford Bridge.Kobbie Mainoo shines in Man United victory over ChelseaIn the previous contest, Carrick had no choice but to resort to Manuel Ugarte’s services on Monday, pairing the Uruguayan with Casemiro.The duo was once again dysfunctional, with Ugarte’s performance receiving a negative reception, as is often the case with the 25-year-old.But the good news for the Man Utd boss is that Mainoo pulled off a timely return, just ahead of the crucial contest against Chelsea.Despite missing their four main centre-backs, the Red Devils somehow escaped the Bridge with a clean sheet and three invaluable points in the bag, bringing them ever closer to sealing their spot in next season’s edition of the Champions League.The makeshift defensive partnership of Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven played a paramount role in the victory, while Bruno Fernandes once again orchestrated the play, creating the winner for Matheus Cunha.Nevertheless, the Telegraph journalist James Ducker chose to highlight Mainoo’s great importance to the cause, noting how his return to the lineup made all the difference for United.“Big 3pts for MUFC that, especiall with four of five centre backs missing,” he posted on X.“The difference between Mainoo rather than Ugarte alongside Casemiro is enormous. Top from Fernandes. Wonder if Dalot will find Garnacho in his back pocket when he wakes tomorrow?” Big 3pts for #MUFC that, esp. with 4 of 5 centre backs missing (appreciate #CFC have key defenders out too). Difference with Mainoo rather than Ugarte alongside Casemiro is enormous. Top from Fernandes. Wonder if Dalot will find Garnacho in his back pocket when he wakes tomo? — James Ducker (@TelegraphDucker) April 18, 2026Mainoo also developing into a defensive asset for Man UtdDucker wasn’t the only one to praise Mainoo’s display. The Manchester Evening News journalist Tyrone Marshall gave him an 8/10 rating, thus identifying him as the Man of the Match, alongside Cunha and Diogo Dalot, who received the same mark.The young midfielder might be renowned for his flair and technical skills, but Marshall focused on his vital defensive contributions, especially against Chelsea star Cole Palmer.“Could make an argument that this was one of his best games defensively,” wrote the MEN journalist.“Won the ball back a couple of times and was well-positioned to intercept. Pick-pocketed Palmer at one point.”Mainoo’s well-rounded game was also illustrated by the numbers provided by Statman Dave, highlighting his exceptional passing rates, as well as key defensive contributions. Kobbie Mainoo’s game by numbers vs. Chelsea: 100% final third pass accuracy 95% pass accuracy 68 touches 21 carries 5 ball recoveries 3 interceptions 3 tackles attempted 2 tackles won Great to have him back. ✨ pic.twitter.com/EwQKKHdGdC — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) April 18, 2026