Dimitar Berbatov showers praise on Manchester United’s rising star Kobbie Mainoo following the team’s impressive 2-0 victory over Tottenham at Old Trafford on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The former striker, who represented both clubs during his career, was particularly impressed by the 20-year-old’s intelligence and composure in a match that saw United secure their fourth consecutive win under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Berbatov noted that Mainoo’s ability to read the game sets him apart, saying how the midfielder constantly scans the pitch to create a “mental picture” of the play. He praised the youngster’s skill in manipulating the tempo, saying, “He’s really smart at slowing the game when it needs to be slowed, luring the other team towards him and then passing the ball.”
The Bulgarian icon also expressed relief that Mainoo stayed at United despite earlier rumors of a potential loan or transfer, stating that fans can finally see “just how good he is.”
Mainoo was a standout performer in the win, providing the crucial assist for Bryan Mbeumo’s opening goal with a clever flick from a corner routine. Statistics from the match showed he recorded an 89% passing accuracy and was instrumental in controlling the midfield after Spurs captain Cristian Romero was sent off in the first half. With Bruno Fernandes later sealing the result, United has now moved within three points of second-placed Manchester City.
The “Carrick effect” seems to be in full swing, and Mainoo has been at the heart of it, starting all four games of the current winning streak. As the Red Devils prepare for their next away game against West Ham on February 10, the focus remains on whether this resurgent form can carry them even higher in the Premier League table.
