Manchester United fans have reason to be excited after witnessing 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo showcase an incredible piece of skill in training.
Mainoo left a strong impression during pre-season for Erik ten Hag’s side, but his progress was hindered by an ankle injury sustained during a friendly match against Real Madrid in Houston, Texas.
Although he had to use crutches to leave the NRG Stadium, United confirmed that he would be sidelined for the early part of the season.
However, the midfielder is now back in first-team training in a timely boost for the Red Devils.
Midfielder Casemiro was injured on international duty with Brazil. United have described it was a “small issue” but one that is enough for him to be absent for the game against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
But it seems as though they do now have Mainoo fit and available. The local lad, who has been with the club since the age of nine, produced a stunning, no-look, flicked pass that Ronaldinho would have been proud of.
Not getting carried away with a pass in training but it’s pretty obvious Kobbie Mainoo is the player Jude Bellingham wishes he was…
— Jay Motty (@JayMotty) October 20, 2023
Prior to his unfortunate injury, Ten Hag liked what he saw from Mainoo, who received praise from United legends Andy Cole and Bryan Robson.
The Dutchman admitted that he would have no problem giving Mainoo minutes on the pitch having seen his quality in training.
“He gets his chance because he deserves it,” Ten Hag toldUnited’s official websitein pre-season.
“Because he showed it in the Under-21s and in our training.
“He showed a high level and now he has to show it in games. So pre-season is perfect to test him.
“He is an option to get into the game squad and to get playtime. We will see but I am confident he can do it and we have to wait we have test if it is going to happen.”
United are looking to build on a last-gaps 2-1 comeback win over Brentford last time out.