Keane Unmoved by Mainoo Resurgence and Harbours Doubts Over Iraola Appointment

Roy Keane has cast a critical eye over Kobbie Mainoo's credentials and thrown cold water on speculation surrounding Manchester United's next permanent manager.

Mainoo has enjoyed a remarkable turnaround since Michael Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim, reclaiming his place as a central midfielder after being largely sidelined under the previous regime. The 21-year-old looked particularly sharp in United's thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, prompting fresh optimism about his future at Old Trafford.

Yet the former United captain remains unconvinced. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane stated: "I'm still not convinced with him."

The pundit acknowledged Mainoo's potential, noting that he represents a genuine prospect for the club and has earned his spot in the England setup. However, Keane believes the midfielder still has considerable ground to cover. "He's a really good young player, he's still a kid, he's only played 70-odd first team games," Keane explained. "He still hasn't convinced me. I hope he does next year. I can be a harsh critic of midfield players, I was very critical of myself. I still think the kid has to do a lot more."

One concern Keane highlighted centres on athleticism. "The only problem is, when people talk about if he's explosive enough, can you improve on that if you're not quick off the mark?" he posed.

Keane did offer some perspective on Mainoo's recent struggles, suggesting that his spell out of favour may ultimately prove beneficial. The midfielder has now penned a long-term contract extension with United, seemingly ending any speculation about a potential departure.

"For a young player at a big club, he comes on the scene and getting all the headlines, doing well and then getting involved with England. The last few months, people have been talking about him going out on loan, but I always said that sometimes you have to sit and learn, watch the game and the team," Keane reflected.

On the managerial front, Keane has expressed scepticism about Andoni Iraola, the Bournemouth boss who has been mooted as a potential replacement for Carrick.

"I am not sure if he has done enough yet," Keane said. While acknowledging Iraola's impressive work on the south coast, the former United skipper questioned whether the Spaniard's credentials translate to the demands of managing a title-chasing outfit.

"Would I see him come to United? Probably not," Keane stated. He highlighted the fundamental difference between the two roles: "At Bournemouth, his remit would be slightly different to United. At United you would be expected to win the title, whereas I am sure his remit there – where he has done an amazing job – is to keep winning football matches while you are selling players and bringing in that type of revenue."

Keane did not entirely rule out Iraola as a possibility, but his assessment suggests he would not be his first choice for the Old Trafford hotseat.