Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag kept the promise he made to Kobbie Mainoo during the start of the season
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag delivered the early promise of game-time for Kobbie Mainoo during the winter. Mainoo has repaid his manager’s faith by living up to the potential that earned him the senior team call-up.
United are having a dreadful season with pressure building up on the manager to deliver some modicum of success. The Red Devils have lost 13 games in all competitions, crashing out of the Carabao Cup and the Champions League.
Ten Hag has struggled to install cohesiveness into his senior team as inconsistent results have plagued their season. They have shown vulnerabilities in both the defensive and offensive phases of the game, struggling to score while leaking goals.
Nevertheless, Ten Hag has maintained the United’s tradition of giving opportunities to youngsters despite the pressure of delivering results. Ten Hag has given chances to Alejandro Garnacho to become a first-choice attacker as Facundo Pellistri continues to feature more.
Furthermore, Hannibal Mejbri and Wily Kambwala have earned minutes as Ten Hag continues to look for solutions everywhere. Mainoo has featured frequently for the Red Devils since making his first competitive start in a 3-0 win against Everton.
Earlier this season, Ten Hag told reporters (h/t Manchester United’s official site) that Mainoo is ready to feature for United. He said:
“At this moment [Before the game against Tottenham Hotspur], he’s not available but I think he will also, in say one, two months. Not in one month, but in two months, he will be available. And so, for the winter [that] is coming up, he absolutely will have his games.”
Mainoo’s performances received praise from football pundits and the United fanbase despite his critical mistake against West Ham United. The 18-year-old has shown his maturity in decision-making and qualities to influence the game on and off the ball.
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The England U19 uses the ball brilliantly, distributing good passes and maintaining the tempo for his team. Mainoo has been strong on duels and looked physically comfortable in the Premier League which demands high intensity and physicality.
Commend Ten Hag for his skill in assessing player potential and providing them with opportunities. He is facing a lot of pressure due to the United’s struggles but youngsters have shown that they trust him completely.
