Erik ten Hag gives verdict on Kobbie Mainoo after Manchester United vs Arsenal fixture
manchestereveningnews.co.ukErik ten Hag was delighted with Kobbie Mainoo's performance in Manchester United's pre-season friendly against Arsenal. United defeated Arsenal 2-0 at the MetLife Stadium on Saturday night thanks to goals from Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho in the first half.
Mainoo started the game and he provided the assist for Fernandes' opening goal. Mainoo has gone from strength to strength since playing a key role in the club's FA Youth Cup success in 2021/22 and he was recently informed he will play a part in the first-team squad next season instead of being sent on loan. ALSO READ: Man United player ratings as Heaton and Mainoo good There are high hopes for Mainoo at Old Trafford and his performance against Arsenal in New Jersey was another promising display.
The 18-year-old looked comfortable against Mikel Arteta's experienced midfield of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz.
Ten Hag spoke to MUTV after the 2-0 win and admitted he was pleased with the impact the academy product had made. He praised Mainoo in his answer but also warned he was conscious of increasing expectations on a player so young. "It's fantastic," he said when asked about Mainoo. "Manchester United are famous for always bringing young players through and he can be one, but we have to see.
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