Mainoo’s performance for Manchester United’s Under-21s against Salford City in October only served to intensify these comparisons, despite the fact that it is often natural to draw parallels between established stars and young players.
While playing under the spotlights, Mainoo demonstrated his powers by providing two assists and displaying remarkable passing abilities that were reminiscent of Pogba’s strategy.
During that encounter, the match report from the MEN highlighted Mainoo’s readiness for first-team football. The report stated, “The midfielder has outgrown academy football, and his talent is needed in the first team.”
After making a full recovery from his injury, Mainoo was progressively incorporated into the lineup of the U21s. Eventually, he was given opportunities to play for the first team under the direction of Erik ten Hag.
A regular berth on the team sheet has been earned by the 18-year-old youngster, who has been outstanding since being promoted to the senior squad this season. He has become a significant player and has earned a spot on the team sheet.
Someone close to Mainoo made a confident prediction that he would play for England in a conversation that took place the previous year, just after he made his debut with the senior team.
There is a remote possibility that Mainoo will be selected for the Three Lions squad to compete in the forthcoming European Championship, despite the fact that he has only played for United a total of twelve times.
His development has been phenomenal, and he possesses all of the qualities necessary to become a world-class talent, much like Pogba had when he emerged from the club’s academy in the late 2000s. Mainoo’s progress has been quite impressive.
It would appear like Mainoo’s future at United is secure, since there have been suggestions that the team should be formed around him.
This is in contrast to Pogba, who departed United on a free transfer to Juventus in 2012. Mainoo, who is known for his calm and affable temperament, is well-grounded by his parents, in contrast to Pogba, who struggled with his character while he was playing for United despite his achievements.
Over the course of his senior career, Mainoo has primarily been utilized as a deep-lying midfielder; however, there are indications that his long-term potential may involve playing as a No. 8 player.
The improvement of his goal-scoring talents has been identified as a potential area for growth, and the goals that he scored recently against Wolves and Newport County suggest that he is making progress in this particular area.
It was Rasmus Hojlund who referred to Mainoo as a “generational talent” after he scored the game-winning goal against Wolves.
The goal was recognized as a moment of individual brilliance.
The improvement that Mainoo has made was also praised by Erik ten Hag, who emphasized the character and drive that he possesses.
Ten Hag, who has a proven track record of cultivating talent, is of the opinion that Mainoo is currently in the ideal atmosphere to take his game to the next level.
