Erik ten Hag has hinted at new Kobbie Mainoo role at Manchester United

This time last year, Kobbie Mainoo would have been coming back from his holiday and preparing for another year of development in the Manchester United academy.

This summer, he has jetted off to the United States with the first team and it is no goodwill gesture. Erik ten Hag has always underlined that each player must earn their minutes and place in the squad.

Mainoo has made just three senior appearances but has done enough to convince his manager that he can be of service to the first team next season. The 18-year-old made his debut in January’s League Cup match against Charlton before signing a new long-term deal a few weeks later.

The teenager has impressed in both friendly appearances so far this summer, especially in the 2-0 win over Leeds in Oslo. His agility, strength and nous have got United fans excited.

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A similar buzz surrounded Alejandro Garnacho last year. The Argentina international did not feature during United's 2022/23 pre-season tour due to disciplinary reasons but he caught the eye in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Wrexham and against Rayo Vallecano.

He earned his full debut in October and had two senior goals by Christmas. He ended the season with 10 goal contributions and a fresh five-year deal, with a new shirt number seemingly on the way.

Garnacho has been told by Ten Hag that his next mission is to become a regular starter after starting just 11 of his 34 outings last season. That could be a tough task with Marcus Rashford occupying the left flank and Mainoo would have a similar mountain to climb.

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