‘We are not surprised’: Ten Hag voices immense pride in Mainoo after an int’l break of milestones

Erik ten Hag is unsurprised that Kobbie Mainoo excelled on his England debut.

The Manchester United starlet has overseen one of the most extraordinary international breaks for a Carrington graduate in some time. 

Having initially been called up to the Under 21s, Mainoo was then promoted to the senior squad by Gareth Southgate following a scintillating display in the FA Cup triumph over Liverpool. The teenager has now completely bypassed Lee Carsley’s side and made the leap straight to the national team.

Of course, a call-up doesn’t always mean you’ll play. Jarrad Branthwaite was included for the first time too, but went on to be an unused substitute for both of the Three Lions’ fixtures.

That wasn’t the case for Mainoo, though. He made an off-the-bench cameo against Brazil last Saturday to earn his first cap before being named in the starting 11 for the subsequent clash with Belgium. He started alongside highly-rated counterparts Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, both of whom voiced their praise for the 18-year-old. 

The Stockport-born talent put in yet another spirited, outstanding shift for 74 minutes before being withdrawn to a standing ovation from supporters at Wembley. After the full-time whistle, he was named the Player of the Match.

His focus is now back on club action ahead of United’s trip to face Brentford tomorrow evening, where he’ll likely be deployed from offset. 

Ten Hag reacts to Mainoo’s Three Lions debut

Reacting to his midfielder’s performances on the international stage, Ten Hag said of Mainoo on Friday (via Manchester Evening News):  “I thought it was very good [display for England] but we are not surprised. We know what he is capable of, he can very quickly adapt to high levels. It looks very natural and we are very happy for him.

“Of course, we are also very [proud], it’s great for the academy of Manchester United to bring up a player so young going into the national team, it’s a big compliment for the whole club. For himself because he did it but also all the ones who worked with him during his time in the academy, it’s very good news for Manchester United.”