Manchester United player explains what makes Kobbie Mainoo so special

Manchester United’s Victor Lindelöf has explained what he thinks makes Kobbie Mainoo so special after fantastic performances under Erik ten Hag.

Kobbie Mainoo has excelled at Manchester United this season, with the 18-year-old establishing himself as one of the first names on Erik ten Hag‘s team sheet in 2024.

His first three starts for the club came away against Everton, Newcastle, and Galatasaray, where the academy product showed maturity beyond his years – something that Victor Lindelöf has been impressed with.

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Speaking to club media, the Swedish international has praised Mainoo, explaining that he is on a path to becoming a Man United great.

“He’s a fantastic player and a very, very smart young player,” Lindelöf said. “You know, he’s got the right mentality and the same there – I think the best thing for him is just stay calm and, you know, listen to obviously the older players and try to learn as much as possible and pick up a few things. But then as well, just be yourself and express yourself on the pitch. 

“That’s the most important thing. And that’s why he’s at this stage as well, because he’s done that throughout his career so far, and I think it’s super important as well to just let him develop naturally.

“Obviously, he’s very, very young, but if he can just keep doing the things he’s doing on the pitch right now, I think he’s going to be a fantastic, fantastic player in the future as well.”

Speaking further, Lindelöf also explained that he can “most definitely” understand why fans are so excited about Mainoo.

“He’s been great in every game he’s played in, and he’s very mature for his age as well, in his decision-making on the pitch, when to speed up the game, when to slow down, and when to take on a player or not. So he’s very, very, very smart and sort of experienced for a youngster.”

Kobbie Mainoo is expected to start as Manchester United face Liverpool at Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon.