Man Utd have a ‘generational talent’ Ineos should build the team around, says NBC Sports pundit

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Manchester United have been urged to build around the most promising player in the squad who plays like he is 10 years older than he is.

Last season away at Everton, Kobbie Mainoo earned rave reviews after making his Premier League debut.

Now, with the 2024/25 season underway, Mainoo was in the Manchester United starting line-up to begin the campaign and it was barely a talking point.

Mainoo was excellent in United’s midfield and his quality just felt routine, in the best way. United fans are now used to seeing the wonderkid deliver impressive performances on a weekly basis.

• READ MORE: Who is Kobbie Mainoo? Inside the life of Man Utd’s rising star, including his parents, brother and school

Build around Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo was singled out for praise during NBC Sports’ coverage over United’s win over Fulham, with the Red Devils urged to build around him.

Former Premier League player Robbie Earle called for United to find the ‘right partner’ for Mainoo for the years ahead.

He said: “You hear the term generational talent when you talk about this guy. He controls the game for Man United, he’s got the maturity and ability to slow the game down and make sure people are in place.

“He plays like a 29-year-old not a 19-year-old, he’s got poise, athleticism, ability in and around the box, he’s an absolute jewel, you build a team around him.

“They now need to find him the right partner in the middle of the field.”

Earle added that he was optimistic about a player on United’s bench, adding: “Watch out for this kid Toby Collyer, people are saying watch out for him this season, he’s a real special talent.”

Manchester United looking to add midfielder

Manchester United are expected to add another midfielder to the mix before the transfer deadline, to the benefit of Mainoo.

Manuel Ugarte and Sander Berge are two very different yet intriguing options, with United’s decision expected to be directed by funds.

Scott McTominay is being strongly linked with an exit, which could provide the funds for United to land top target Ugarte.

Mainoo was typically majestic in United’s win over Fulham, he completed four dribbles, more than any player on the pitch, and he won 13 duels – also the highest number.

The youngster won 100 per cent of his tackles too, three of three, also making five interceptions.

Even providing extra depth behind Mainoo is important, so United can enjoy him in the long-term, rather than becoming over-reliant on a short-term basis.