Roy Keane believes Kobbie Mainoo is already ‘on par’ with two Manchester United midfield legends.
Kobbie Mainoo has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dreary campaign for Manchester United.
The teenager has broken into Erik ten Hag’s first team and already established himself as the best midfielder.
Mainoo is only 18 but has earned his first England call-up this week, too, withGareth Southgate U-turning on his initial decision to leave him out.
It’s been a whirlwind week for Mainoo as his career continues on its meteoric rice.
Now United icon Roy Keane has said Mainoo is currently ‘on par’ with fellow midfield royalty Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt when they were first making their name at Old Trafford.
Roy Keane has been left impressed by Kobbie Mainoo
Speaking on theStick to Football podcast, Gary Neville asked Keane how Mainoo compares to Scholes and Butt when they were breaking into the United team.
He said: “With Butty more than Scholesy, Scholsey was definitely a little higher up the pitch when he first broke into the United team.
“Definitely was playing more off the front. Compared to Butty, if he does half as well Butty did then he’s done well.
“Obviously Butty and these young players they’re talented or they wouldn’t be at United but it’s their personality and their temperament.
“Butty came in as we know a good boy he was. Yeah, I’d put him [Mainoo] on a par with them.
Settled into the first team, how they cope with the challenges, playing at Old Trafford.
“He’s got a chance. He’s got lots to learn in that position, what would help him at the moment, it is chaotic, but maybe that’s a good way to learn.”
There’s only one worry for United
Mainoo has been sensational since breaking into the team and credit must go to Ten Hag, who recognised his talent almost immediately.
The Dutchman tried to implement Mainoo in his team much earlier than he actually has but injuries put a delay on things.
Mainoo made his first team debut over a year ago in early 2023, making a single appearance in each of the Premier League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
However, an injury ended his season early and halted his progress. That didn’t stop Ten Hag taking him on the pre-season tour but then Mainoo suffered another setback.
The No.37 sustained an ankle injury against Real Madrid that sidelined him until late October.
Two lengthy injuries in quick succession for someone so young is a concern, especially now Mainoo’s workload has increased tenfold.
It should be United’s only worry on Mainoo and they will have to manage him carefully so he doesn’t burn out too soon.