Jainil Shah
Erik ten Hag opens up on Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo and his England prospects
Kobbie Mainoo is one of the best things to happen to Erik ten Hag and Manchester United in an otherwise difficult season. The 18-year-old midfielder has slotted in seamlessly in the middle of the park for the Red Devils following a breakthrough into the first team.
Mainoo’s remarkable rise at Manchester United, starting all of the club’s previous ten games just over a year after his senior debut, is indeed a testament to his talent and dedication. The young academy graduate has consistently impressed with his performances, earning widespread recognition and sparking discussions about his potential inclusion in the England senior team.
With England scheduled to play friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, Mainoo’s name has surfaced as a candidate for a call-up to the national squad. His mature performances at Old Trafford, despite his tender age, have caught the attention of England’s coaching staff and fans alike, prompting speculation about his potential role in the national team setup.
If Mainoo were to receive a call-up, it would mark a significant milestone in his career and serve as recognition of his rapid progress and exceptional abilities. However, it would also bring added pressure and expectations as he navigates the transition to international football. Ultimately, whether or not Mainoo earns a spot in the England squad will depend on the selectors’ assessments and his continued performances for Manchester United.
Ten Hag speaks on a possible Mainoo England call-up
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has refrained from giving his take on a possible call-up to England manager Gareth Southgate.
When asked about the possibility of Mainoo receiving a call-up to the England senior squad, ten Hag refrained (h/t BBC Sport) from offering a definitive stance, underscoring his commitment to supporting Mainoo’s growth as a player. The Manchester United boss acknowledges Mainoo’s considerable potential but emphasizes the need for careful guidance to ensure his progression aligns with his capabilities and readiness for higher levels of competition.
“It’s not up to me. The England manager, Gareth Southgate, knows very well what he wants and it’s up to him.
“All the things that I can see, and what I saw, is that high potential. Every time, he’s going to high levels. Every training, every game, he’s playing at higher levels. So he has a high potential but it’s up to him to keep the process going and I have to manage this.”
Ghanaian FA are also said to be considering an approach for Kobbie Mainoo with the 18-year-old eligible for playing for Ghana as well. Playing a friendly will not restrict a later transition to Ghana and he can still switch alliances even if Kobbie Mainoo feather for England later this month.
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Erik ten Hag’s cautious approach regarding the teenager’s potential call-up to the England senior squad reflects his focus on nurturing the young talent’s development. Despite Mainoo’s six caps for England’s Under-19s, ten Hag emphasizes the importance of patience and responsible management in guiding the 18-year-old’s career trajectory.
By prioritizing Mainoo’s development and acknowledging his responsibility in nurturing the young talent, ten Hag demonstrates a measured approach that prioritizes long-term success over immediate gains.
