Manchester United wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo has described being replaced by Casemiro on his senior debut for the Red Devils as “crazy”.
Erik ten Hag handed the 17-year-old his competitive first team bow in last night’s 3-0 win against Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
The teenager, who was instrumental in United’s FA Youth Cup success last season, started in an advanced midfield role against the Addicks.
The England Under-18 international had experienced duo Scott McTominay and Fred behind him with regulars Casemiro and Christian Eriksen on the bench, and Bruno Fernandes suspended.
Ten Hag explained prior to last night’s clash against the League One side that Stockport-born Mainoo deserved to be handed his debut.
The talented box-to-box midfielder was replaced by Casemiro on the hour mark with United leading 1-0.
After making his senior debut for the twenty-time league champions, Mainoo described how it felt to be replaced by the five-time Champions League winner.
Speaking to the club’s media, Mainoo said: “To be able to follow him closely in training is an honour, and for him to come on for me tonight is crazy.”
Mainoo’s development will only benefit from training alongside the former Real Madrid man and being able to watch the Brazilian up close and personal.
The 30-year-old is one of the best midfielders on the planet and Mainoo will be keen to learn as much as possible from United’s influential number 18.
Mainoo will no doubt have aspirations of playing alongside Casemiro in United’s midfield, and the academy star is keen to get more game time at senior level.
The youngster added: “To stay around it and keep on getting more games is the ultimate goal.”
