The Mainoo issue should make Manchester United more concerned about Ten Hag’s future. Energetic youth midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 19, has been a rare bright light for Erik ten Hag’s side, making allegations that he has now got the ‘Casemiro virus’ a serious worry.
Manchester United supporters have a lot to worry about, but Kobbie Mainoo’s lack of enthusiasm has to be one of their top worries.
In another season of severe underperformance for the struggling Reds, the appearance of the typically lively midfielder has provided a rare ray of sunshine. The youngster, who turned 19 less than a month ago, has had a breakout season with some spectacular performances.
Mainoo has led sporadic United through a number of games, combining his defensive skill with moments of pure offensive genius that defy his youth. Gareth Southgate gave him his England debut off the bench against Brazil last month, which came as no surprise given his age of 18.
And Mainoo’s calm command of the midfield against Belgium a few days later indicated he may even get a starting position for the Euros this summer. However, Sky Sports analyst Tim Sherwood chastised him for his poor performance in Saturday’s 1-1 tie with lowly Burnley.
Sherwood said Mainoo had acquired the ‘Casemiro bug’, referring to the much-maligned Reds midfielder who has been mocked for his lack of pace and jogging about the ground.
Marcus Rashford has been accused of equally uninspired and listless performances this season, and even captain Bruno Fernandes has been chastised for sometimes disregarding his defensive responsibilities.
However, United must guarantee that players like Mainoo do not follow in their footsteps and fall into the same trap. Boss Erik ten Hag is already under a lot of pressure to keep his position, and if the adolescent talent starts to fade, his hand will be weakened even more.
More significantly, if Mainoo’s light is doused so fast, what message does this give to the other students who want to make their mark?
If Mainoo becomes caught down in United’s evident lethargy, demonstrating apathy and the fundamental need of a desire to run, Ten Hag has little prospect of turning things around. But the under-fire management can only blame himself. United’s midfield lacks energy and intensity at times, which is worrying.
If this becomes the norm, it may take some time to rediscover. Mainoo is critical in establishing the pace. Admittedly, at the age of 19, this should not be the case. However, the fact that United have already learned to depend on his energy and brilliance reflects their current situation.
Hopefully, the poor performance against Burnley was simply a hiccup. Everyone has down days, particularly while they are still adjusting to first-team life, and no one will blame him for that considering his continuous high level of performance so far.
However, Mainoo’s body language and attitude will be closely watched in the remaining games of the season to determine whether he has really caught the ‘Casemiro bug’.
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