Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been vocal about Kobbie Mainoo’s potential to address the team’s midfield issues this season.
In their recent match against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, the Red Devils suffered a 4-3 defeat, once again highlighting their midfield’s lack of physicality and versatility. This loss marked their fourth in five matches, with a troubling third consecutive defeat.
Despite being only 18 years old and having limited first-team appearances, Mainoo is seen as a solution to the midfield woes. Within the club, he is regarded as a young talent with the potential for a long-term career in the senior squad.
Pundit Chris Sutton pointed out Manchester United’s most significant problem by saying “I think Manchester United’s problem area, and I say problem area, but the biggest issue Manchester United have is that midfield area. I just do not think they have the legs and dynamism.”
This season, Christian Eriksen has struggled alongside Casemiro, while Scott McTominay is not considered a regular first-team player by Ten Hag. McTominay has had difficulties impressing in midfield, despite West Ham’s £30 million bid being rejected by United this summer.
Sofyan Amrabat was signed on a season-long loan from Fiorentina, and his inclusion would bring structure and energy to the midfield. If both Amrabat and Mainoo are fit, they would likely feature prominently in Ten Hag’s plans.
Mason Mount, another summer acquisition, has also been sidelined due to injuries. Like Amrabat, Mount was brought in for his energy and pressing abilities, which are qualities that Eriksen, valued for his technical prowess, does not possess.
Manchester United fans are undoubtedly disappointed by the numerous injuries, especially Mainoo’s, who impressed during the preseason and seemed poised to play a significant role in the early weeks of the season had he not been unavailable. With the departure of Fred to Fenerbahce, an opportunity had opened up for him this summer.
Mainoo, who joined the Red Devils at the age of nine, has represented England at various youth levels and is highly regarded for his potential at both club and international levels. He made three appearances for Ten Hag’s side last season, debuting in an EFL Cup victory against Charlton and making his league debut as a substitute against Leicester in February.
Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo
EnglandThis season he played in total once for 10 minutes for Premier League.
Kobbie Mainoo didn’t score any goal for Manchester United. He procured no assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 3rd in Premier League. In the last match Manchester United lost 4-3 against FC Bayern München. The next match in Premier League will be against Burnley.
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United
Manchester United is currently 13th in the Premier League with 6 points.
In the last 5 games, it has won twice and lost 3 times. In its last match, Manchester United lost 1-3 against Brighton & Hove Albion.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 6 goals and conceding 10.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Burnley on Saturday 23rd of September in Burnley. The prediction is Manchester United winning the match.
