'Don't waste your time' – Paul Scholes sets the record straight about bold Kobbie Mainoo claim

Paul Scholes has heaped praise on Kobbie Mainoo following Manchester United's win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final. The 19-year-old midfielder fired the Red Devils to victory at Wembley Stadium on Saturday afternoon, marking the end of a brilliant breakthrough campaign.

Mainoo, who sees his contract at Old Trafford expire in 2027, featured 32 times for Manchester United across all competitions this season, scoring five goals and providing one assist. The teenage sensation played a crucial role in Erik ten Hag's side, often shielding a depleted backline.

He also featured in every round of the FA Cup for the Red Devils, starting all but one game – the fifth round against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. Having quickly established himself as a mainstay in the starting lineup, Mainoo has earned comparisons to all-time greats who have preceded him, one of which being Scholes.

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Taking to Instagram after the FA Cup final, the Manchester United legend heaped praise on Mainoo, claiming that the youngster is far better than he was when he was the same age.

"Read a few comparisons between me and this kid last week... don't waste your time, he is 10 times the player I was at 19," wrote Scholes. "Just love the way he receives the ball, the calmness, the awareness of what's around him and of course big goals in big games... This boy is special... and he's f*cking red [two red heart emojis]... laters [kiss emoji]..."

Nevertheless, speaking to reporters after the FA Cup final, Mainoo offered his verdict on Manchester United's win over their rivals. As