Sofyan Amrabat? Manchester United Have Just What They Need At Home In Kobbie Mainoo

Alejandro Garnacho was the one who broke through to the pinnacle of Manchester United’s first team from the academy. Garnacho’s obvious talent at youth level meant he’d never last long there, and Kobbie Mainoo looks to be the same.

The Stockport born midfielder showcased his skills for United in a 2-0 win against Leeds today, and played the role of a deep number six perfectly. Sofyan Amrabat has been linked to Manchester United, but they may be better served looking closer to home.

Erik ten Hag rates Kobbie Mainoo highly. The United midfielder was one of the few apart from Garnacho that got game time for the first team last season. There was a reason for that.

Mainoo’s ability on the ball and his awareness of space is an asset you would expect from a player years his senior, not an 18-year old. If you’re good enough you’re old enough, and Kobbie Mainoo is good enough.

United will likely lose Fred this summer with Fulham chasing the Brazilian but Mainoo could be the eventual successor of Casemiro. At 31 the midfielder is not getting any older, and Ten Hag has major belief in Mainoo’s abilities.

https://twitter.com/utdmotion/status/1679180754956304393

Erik ten Hag spoke before the game today about wanting at least one academy player to break through this season, and he will know himself it’s likely to be Mainoo. United are built on the foundation of trusting youth, and now is the time do that.

The rest of the pre-season tour will be a lithmus test to see how ready Mainoo really is. Based off today’s performance, United could save £30million by pushing him into the first-team.

Sofyan Amrabat? Manchester United Have Just What They Need At Home In Kobbie Mainoo

ByDylan McBennett