MU crush Sabah 4-0, Mainoo sets record with 81 passes

Manchester United made an impressive Champions League return by crushing Sabah FK 4-0 at Old Trafford. The victory not only secured three points but also restored confidence after a disappointing 2-2 draw against Everton earlier this month. Four goals were scored by four different players: Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, and defender Lisandro Martínez. The diversity in goalscoring highlights the team's spread attacking threat. However, the most talked-about player after the match was young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo completed 81 passes during the match, the highest on the pitch and a record for a Manchester United player in the Champions League since Michael Carrick's 89 passes against Olympiakos in February 2026 – according to Opta data. His composure and ability to control the tempo made him the center of head coach Michael Carrick's praise. Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Carrick said: 'Kobbie is a special player. He easily controls the tempo of the match and has a big influence on our play. It's a joy to have him in the team. We were dangerous in transition and defended well for most of the time.' However, Carrick was cautious: 'The result seemed easy, but in reality it was not that simple. We still have a lot to improve.' The 4-0 win came immediately after the 2-2 draw with Everton, a result described by media as a blow to MU's ambitions. Therefore, crushing Sabah – a team making their Champions League debut – is seen as a necessary mental boost ahead of the derby against Manchester City this weekend. According to the schedule, Manchester City have a perfect start to the Premier League, and MU will travel to the Etihad. The Manchester derby promises to be a real test for Carrick's squad. Can the newly restored confidence be enough to derail Pep Guardiola's team? That is the biggest question now. Tactically, Carrick is building a style based on possession and quick transitions. Mainoo's role as a tempo-setting midfielder allows Bruno Fernandes more space to create. Meanwhile, the attacking duo of Šeško and Cunha bring freshness and pace up front. However, it should be noted that Sabah are a much weaker opponent than what MU will face next. A 4-0 win against a team making their Champions League debut cannot confirm MU's true strength. Metrics like expected goals (xG) or successful pressing were not published, but from Carrick's words, he is not entirely satisfied with the performance. Another notable point is the comparison between Mainoo and Michael Carrick. Placing a young midfielder alongside a club legend creates high expectations but also risks media pressure. Carrick skillfully praised while also tempering expectations, showing his management experience in the dressing room. Looking ahead, Manchester United have a chance to prove their real strength against Manchester City. If they perform well and get a positive result, experts will recognize the Sabah win as not just 'bullying the weak.' Conversely, a heavy defeat will bring back doubts about the team's true quality. MU fans have reason to hope after this resounding win, but history shows that wins against weak opponents are often not reliable measures. What matters is that team morale is high, and Mainoo is becoming a bright spot in the play. If Carrick maintains balance, MU could surprise at the Etihad. In summary, the 4-0 win over Sabah is a perfect springboard for MU ahead of the Manchester derby. They have goals, a record, and confidence. But everything will be tested this weekend. Let's wait and see if the Red Devils can make a statement or just have a glorious night before fading away.