Nemanja Matic compares Kobbie Mainoo to Real Madrid maestro

Former Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic was full of praise for Kobbie Mainoo after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with rivals Liverpool. The 18-year-old has been getting plenty of plaudits this season and now he has been compared with Real Madrid maestro Luka Modric.

After Bruno Fernandes’ stunning equaliser to wipe out Luis Diaz’s opener, United turned the game around when Mainoo found the back of the net with a superb curling finish. It was his first-ever senior goal at Old Trafford to make it even more special.

Mainoo has shined in what has been a difficult season for United as a collective. He continues to go from strength to strength after starting each of the Reds’ last 15 league matches. As a result, the academy graduate is in the frame to make Gareth Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024, especially after making his Three Lions debut against Brazil in March.

Speaking about the talented youngster for Premier League Productions at the weekend, Vidic was particularly impressed with Mainoo’s ability to sense what is around him on the pitch and be productive with the ball (via Manchester Evening News): “Mainoo has been fantastic, especially his awareness in these areas. He reminds me sometimes of Modric.

“He always feels who is behind him. You can see, he took the first touch, straight away moved to the side, then it was a great strike. He’s difficult to defend against.”

Former United team-mate Wayne Rooney was in agreement, adding: “Yes he is [more than a holding midfielder]. I watched him play against Nottingham Forest as well. He played a little higher, so he can certainly do that. When he got the ball he drove at the Liverpool backline. Great first touch and the finish is incredible.”

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