Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has made his long awaited return to action.
Promising teenager Kobbie Mainoo has got his 2023/24 campaign up and running.
After Erik ten Hag remarked that Mainoo could get some minutes under his belt this week, we suggested this might come in the UEFA Youth League, rather than the first team.
And so it proved, with Mainoo played 45 minutes for the under-19s against Copenhagen.
Kobbie Mainoo message to fans
Kobbie Mainoo played the first half of the game at Leigh Sports Village, with the game 0-0 when he left the pitch. United went onto lose 1-0.
PA Sport’s Simon Peach reported the substitution was pre-agreed, with Manchester United deciding ahead of kick-off that Mainoo would only get 45 minutes.
Manchester United supporters were impressed with his performance, noting how composed he was in possession.
Mainoo was pleased to make his comeback, sending a message out via his Instagram Stories: “Good to get 45 minutes in the legs after a tough time out… work starts now.”
Expectation on Kobbie Mainoo
There is some difficulty for Kobbie Mainoo to deal with the expectation on him. His pre-season performances raised the bar.
United have the stance that Mainoo must build up his fitness and minutes, he will be eased in when he is ready to contribute, rather than be rushed.
Supporters are confident that Mainoo will be a success, but the club, management and player have to deal with the pressure, which won’t be easy, especially at Manchester United.
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