Diogo Dalot has praised Kobbie Mainoo’s impressive resurgence, insisting the midfielder has come back stronger after a difficult spell under former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.
Mainoo produced the defining moment on Sunday, scoring a 77th-minute winner as Manchester United defeated Liverpool 3-2 to secure Champions League qualification in dramatic fashion.
The result also completed a first league double over their fierce rivals since the 2015-16 season, with Mainoo at the heart of the celebrations after his match-winning contribution.
The 21-year-old’s decisive strike marked a major turnaround in a season that had previously seen him struggle for game time under Amorim. During that period, Mainoo failed to start a single league match and reportedly grew frustrated, with potential transfer interest—including links to Napoli—emerging in both transfer windows.
Since Michael Carrick took interim charge, however, Mainoo’s fortunes have changed significantly, with the midfielder rediscovering confidence and form in key moments.
Speaking after the victory, Dalot highlighted how adversity has helped shape the youngster’s development and maturity.
“I think it shows the level that he can become. I think he’s becoming a very complete player. Even in the last couple of games, you could see him stepping up his game,” Dalot said.
“And I mean, really pleased that, not because he scored the goal. He has quality for that, but overall, he’s a fantastic kid that worked really hard to be in this position. So really, really happy with him.”
Dalot added that Mainoo’s response to earlier setbacks demonstrates both his mentality and his long-term potential within the squad.
