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9 months ago
52 Kobbie Mainoo has been compared to club great Paul Scholes by former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov.
Following a 3-0 victory over Everton last year in which he made his Premier League debut, 18-year old Mainoo burst onto the scene.
Since then, the midfielder has established himself as an important member of the first team squad, and Erik ten Hag has praised his “incredible” growth.
United legend Berbatov has even likened himself to midfield great Scholes.
The former striker told Betfair: “The goal he scored against Wolves was great because it shows that he’s mature beyond his years.
“He had the courage to try something different in the last minute of the game and it was a special moment.
“Mainoo is a special player, but as with every 18-year-old, we must just let them play because at the moment, Kobbie is just enjoying football in its purest form and that’s what I like to see.
“You have to go back to the likes of Paul Scholes, Giggsy, Gary Neville, and when that crop of players broke through to see players so young seem so mature.
“Now with Kobbie, you can see he plays the game with such confidence. He’s composed and he knows how to play the game.
“Of course, we all hope he’ll get better because he’s still so young. Players like him are special individuals.
“You see them play at a young age and they clearly have the talent. Now the only thing Kobbie must do is continue developing and work on the weak points of his game that will benefit the team.”
Mainoo became an instant hero for the United supporters when he scored a late winner against Wolves in a 4-3 win.
His performances have been so good for the club that even England boss Gareth Southgate has noticed them and is now considering him for a senior international call-up.
United’s big positive this season has been the performances of the young players. Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho have wasted no time in making an impact and cementing their places in the team.
ten Hag’s faith in the youth has worked wonders for the club and the Dutch manager is keen to push the young core of the club to perform even better in the remainder of the season.

