Injured Fulham star calls out Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday continues to generate talking points – not just for the result, but for one particularly bruising midfield battle.

Michael Carrick’s side made it three wins from three since his return as interim head coach in January, following earlier victories over Manchester City and Arsenal.

Goals from Casemiro, who has been named the Premier League’s best player of matchweek 24, and Matheus Cunha had put United in control before Fulham fought back late on, only for a late Benjamin Sesko winner – brilliantly assisted by Bruno Fernandes – to seal another statement win.

Amid the chaos of the contest, Kobbie Mainoo once again underlined his growing importance in United’s midfield.

The 20-year-old has been reintegrated into the starting XI in recent weeks, allowing Fernandes to operate higher up the pitch and forming a strong partnership with Casemiro.

However, Mainoo’s influence was quite literally felt by Alex Iwobi.

Speaking on his Youtube channel, the Fulham midfielder joked that he was still suffering the effects of a clash with the United youngster during the game.

While lifting two strapped fingers on his right hand, Iwobi said: “Shout out Kobbie Mainoo but Kobbie man… you absolutely finished my hand. This guy has Ghanaian strength!”

The light-hearted comment appeared to stem from a physical duel for possession, with Mainoo emerging on top during a combative midfield exchange.

While the exact moment of the injury remains unclear, Iwobi’s remarks suggest it came durimng one of several intense challenged between the two.

Only a month ago, Mainoo’s future looked uncertain.

Limited minutes earlier in the season had fuelled speculation about a potential January move, with interest emerging from Italy.

Since Carrick’s appointment, however, the picture has changed dramatically.

The interim boss has repeatedly praised Mainoo’s versatility and maturity, highlighting the balance he brings alongside Casemiro.

With 18 months remaining on his current deal, discussions over a contract extension are now expected to move forward – a reflection of how central he has become to the Red Devils’ recent revival.

As Manchester United push for a UEFA Champions League return, moments like Sunday’s – even the painful ones for the opposition – underline just how quickly Mainoo is asserting himself at Premier League level.