Ian Wright raves about Manchester United wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo

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Ian Wright has been speaking about Kobbie Mainoo’s sensational performance for Manchester United against Everton at Goodison Park.

Erik ten Hag decided that Kobbie Mainoo was ready to start his first Premier League game for Manchester United against the Toffees in what was a risky move.

At just 18 years of age, academy players can sometimes not be physically ready to handle men’s professional football but Mainoo, despite this, was sensational.

The confidence he had on the ball when being harried by Everton players was a joy to watch and the midfielder was unlucky not to receive the man of the match award.

Wright’s reaction

Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast, the former Arsenal striker was impressed with how the 18-year-old settled against Sean Dyche’s Everton.

“That performance from Mainoo by the way,” Wright began, “I remember seeing him in pre-season, you could just see his level with his calmness, maturity and passing, you just think wow! In every aspect of his game and how played he looked like a senior pro, he made all the right decisions, and he was brilliant.

“He came into a big game for United and had a midfield performance of that level, to play with that composure was so impressive.”

The praise that the teenager is getting will be music to the ears of the United fanbase as the midfielder hugely impressed in pre-season, against Arsenal in particular.

Mainoo’s role

Ten Hag has a big decision to make when his senior players come back into the fold at Old Trafford. Mainoo has shown against a tough and physical side that he can handle the pressure of that environment.

There is now no question that the 18-year-old is ready for consistent game time for the Red Devils. With two tough games coming this week against Galatasaray and Newcastle United, Mainoo has to start.

Relying on a teenager to be the anchor in United’s midfield is not ideal but Mainoo is good enough and if you’re good enough you’re old enough to play for the Red Devils.