Manchester United graduate Kobbie Mainoo continued his fine pre-season form during the 2-0 win over Arsenal at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The 18-year-old had fantastic outings against Leeds United and Lyon recently, and there were no surprises that he got the nod in the starting XI last night.
The youngster started in the number six role, but he was hugely impressive with his movement from the right flank. He won 100 per cent of his ground duels.
Mainoo completed 23 out of his 24 passes with an accuracy of 96 per cent. He provided the assist for Bruno Fernandes’ goal, scored on the counter-attack.
The teenager was substituted alongside the rest of his outfield teammates at the break, but it was another performance with a big statement from him.
United may not need to invest on another midfielder
There has been much talk about United investing on a second midfielder this summer.
They have brought in Mason Mount to strengthen the creative midfield department, but there are suggestions that a new defensive midfielder could be signed too.
Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat has been linked in recent weeks, though he currently prefers a move to the Spanish La Liga with interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
If Mainoo can continue to impress in the same way against the likes of Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, he could change the stance of manager Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag clearly ‘trusts the ability‘ of the youngster and has decided against loaning him out. Mainoo could take the next step to become a key member of the first-team squad.
He can play anywhere in midfield which is his main strength. He could be an understudy for the likes of Casemiro, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes. He could get plenty of minutes.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
