Kobbie Mainoo makes strong Man United statement that backs up Alejandro Garnacho’s prediction

Kobbie Mainoo has made a strong statement about the ‘iconic’ photo of him celebrating with Manchester United teammates Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund.

Mainoo, 18, has emerged as a consistent first-team player under Erik ten Hag at United this season. He has started 12 Premier League fixtures since returning from injury in November.

The teenager has not only become a regular in the team but also a crucial part of Ten Hag’s side.

His quality is unquestionable, but the more surprising attribute of the youngster has been his calming nature and strong mentality.

Mainoo was alongside Alejandro Garnacho in an interview with Sky Sports ahead of this weekend’s Manchester Derby, and his Argentine teammate detailed that his celebration with Mainoo and Rasmuss Højlund is his favourite to date.

“I think I’ll take the last one with myself, Kobbie [Mainoo] and Rasmus [Hojlund]. This was very nice,” he said.

Then, when Mainoo was asked about the ‘iconic’ picture by the presenter, the teenager pushed back on the idea and assured that the trio need to succeed in order for the image to be remembered fondly.

“The picture is only iconic if we go on to do great things for this club,” stressed Mainoo. “If we can do that, hopefully, it will go in the history books.”

Mainoo’s strong words off the pitch mixed with his authoritative and calm nature on it have made many believe that he is an option for the captaincy role at Old Trafford in the future.

Garnacho previously liked a post on social media platform X, formally known as Twitter, which stated that Mainoo was going to become the United captain.

The pair have both been given their first-team opportunities at the club by Ten Hag and have become key players under the Dutchman.

“Erik is a very good manager,” Garnacho stated. “He has given me the opportunity to play every week at this club. I am grateful. He always wants me to work hard and train good every day.”

Mainoo added: “What I appreciate is that he pushes you every single day. He always wants more and more from his players, and I think that helps you develop quicker.”