Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has no plans of sending Kobbie Mainoo out on loan for the 2023/24 campaign, according to The Athletic.
The 18-year-old made his first-team debut for the Red Devils last season. He started against Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup quarter-final and made two more appearances.
It is now reported that Ten Hag ‘loves him to madness’ and ‘trusts his ability’. Mainoo is expected to stay with the first-team squad next season, and won’t leave on a temporary deal.
Meanwhile, Amad Diallo and Facundo Pellistri could depart on loan alongside Hannibal Mejbri. United have not ruled out the possibility of selling the latter amid Financial Fair Play issues.
Mainoo ahead of schedule with his development
Ten Hag handed Mainoo with a surprise start against Charlton in January after Bruno Fernandes’ suspension. He could now act as an understudy to the Portuguese.
Fernandes has been an undisputed starter for United since his arrival, and it is expected that he will be announced as the new captain of the club in the coming days.
Mainoo will be limited to minutes off the bench, but it is still a good sign. Ten Hag clearly feels the 18-year-old is ready to break into his first-team plans next term.
Aside from Mainoo, we believe Amad Diallo should get his chance. The Ivorian netted 14 goals and provided three assists during his loan spell at Sunderland.
Amad’s prospects of staying at United could depend on whether he can turn up with stand-out performances during the remaining six pre-season matches.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
