Manchester United’s rising star Kobbie Mainoo has spoken out about his immense gratitude for former manager Erik ten Hag.
Kobbie Mainoo enjoyed his breakthrough season at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag in 2023/24.
In that season, Mainoo had a huge influence on the team and scored a goal that helped United beat Man City in the FA Cup final – just 12 months on from winning the FA Youth Cup.
The 21-year-old struggled under Ten Hag’s successor, Ruben Amorim, but he has since flourished in midfield under Michael Carrick, with United fans singing his new chant to the tune of Billy Ocean’s 1970s hit ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’ in the stands.
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Kobbie Mainoo shows gratitude to Erik ten Hag
It was Ten Hag who gave Mainoo his debut in a Carabao Cup tie against Charlton Athletic on January 23.
The game took place at Old Trafford and finished 3-0 to United following a goal from Antony and Marcus Rashford’s late brace.
Mainoo has come a long way since then and is now a regular in Carrick’s line-up, after helping United on their successful quest back into the Champions League.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Mainoo was asked to reflect on his time playing under Ten Hag.
“I mean he started my professional career,” Mainoo said.
“He gave me the chance and have me the push to be the player I am.
Mainoo went on to confirm that he will be forever grateful to Ten Hag for the opportunity and trust he was given.
“Yeah, 100%,” he added.
“Because if he doesn’t put me on the pitch, I don’t play, you know, he’s the boss. So, yeah, I’m just grateful for his trust and belief in me.”
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Kobbie Mainoo reflects positively on playing under Erik ten Hag
- Mainoo enjoyed his breakthrough season at Manchester United under Ten Hag
- The 21-year-old will be forever grateful to the former United manager
If Elliot Anderson is £125m… What is Kobbie Mainoo’s market value right now?
Not that he's going anywhere…🔒
What is Erik ten Hag doing now?
After a short stint in charge of Bayer Leverkusen, Ten Hag was named technical director of Eredivisie side FC Twente.
Ten Hag returned to his former club in February and has been working there ever since.
It remains to be seen if Ten Hag will return to management, but many in the Netherlands will still believe that he has plenty to offer.
At least he knows Mainoo would be happy to recommend on his behalf, but maybe not to return to Old Trafford, as that ship has long sailed.
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