Anthony Elanga’s comment proven correct as Man United ‘future captain’ shines despite Nottingham Forest defeat

Nottingham Forest forward Anthony Elanga has been vindicated in his praise of one former Manchester United teammate after his team’s 2-1 victory in the Premier League.

Elanga, 21, left the Old Trafford club in the summer after minimal opportunities under Erik ten Hag last term. He was signed by Nottingham Forest for a reported £15 million fee.

Following his United exit, Elanga has excelled for the struggling Forest and already has four goals and six assists this campaign. That is more goal contributions than any United player.

After the controversial half-time substitute from Erik ten Hag in this clash, Elanga’s prior comments on former teammate Kobbie Mainoo have been proven correct by the emergence into the first-team from the teenager and the seeming reliance on him.

“Kobbie Mainoo [is the next academy star],” Elanga told MailOnline earlier this term. “He is one of my close guys that I still speak to at United, and I believe he is next the top one, his talent is unreal.

“He has got everything, and I just hope United can look after him really well and let him flourish. He is a top player.”

Mainoo was out injured at the time after a setback during pre-season, but the midfielder has since returned to action and taken his chance in Erik ten Hag’s side after impressive performances in difficult circumstances.

He only made his Old Trafford debut in the Premier League last time out against Aston Villa – after starting four tough away games in a row – and again stood out at the base of United’s midfield.

Hinted at as a “future captain” of the club by academy and first-team teammate Alejandro Garnacho, it appears that Mainoo has already proven Elanga’s comments correct, and the Forest forward would’ve certainly been glad to see Mainoo exit the pitch last weekend.