Erik ten Hag exclusive: Manchester United boss opens up on Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho 'incredible progress' - Eurosport

During an interview with TNT Sports, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag urged Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho to establish their own unique identity, while also discussing the impressive advancements the two players have accomplished while with the team.

At 18 years old, Mainoo made his debut goal in a senior United shirt during the FA Cup game against Newport County on January 28th. Although he only played his first Premier League match of the season against Everton back on November 26th, he has established himself as a key player in Ten Hag's midfield.

Garnacho, who is 19 years old, was not as prominent in the previous season but has made a significant impact on the United first team. This happened after the match against the Toffees in November where he surprised the Goodison Park audience with a stunning overhead kick. He has since scored three more goals and given two more assists in all competitions. He has become a regular choice to play on the left of the front three, often replacing Marcus Rashford.

Mainoo and Garnacho were teammates when United secured the FA Youth Cup title in 2022. However, they now have regular spots in Ten Hag's team, who are currently striving for a top-four finish in the Premier League, along with a possible victory in the FA Cup. The team is set to compete against Wolves on Thursday, and the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports.

During an interview with TNT Sports, Ten Hag expressed his belief that Manchester United has a promising future ahead. He pointed out that there are several exceptionally skilled and youthful players on the team who will likely make significant contributions in the years to come.

Kobbie Mainoo is a player who regularly participates in matches, just like Garnacho who has been playing nearly every game.

Additionally, there is a squad of players who are capable of making valuable contributions presently and in the foreseeable future for Manchester United.

However, we have a tendency to be somewhat restless and have a need for immediate results. We require them in the immediate future.

"So we've got Mainoo, Garnacho, and also Rasmus Hojlund, who are all young and talented players. However, playing in Manchester United's first team requires consistent high performance and winning matches."

The leader from the Netherlands stated: "There's a custom in Manchester United of producing academy players or nurturing young talent. However, we must now progress their abilities to more advanced stages."

However, the pressure at Manchester United is a constant presence. It's crucial to have players who possess courage and the ability to perform in a team and club of this caliber.

In my opinion, our team has the appropriate individuals and setting to guide and support these young players. Our experienced members possess the skills necessary to assist our rookies in their growth. At the moment, it is crucial that they function as a unit, maintain a sense of unity, and produce successful outcomes.

Mainoo has demonstrated his skills in supporting his teammates at defense, indicated by the fact that he has successfully carried out a significant number of defensive actions in the penalty box during just seven games played in the league.

Moreover, in the future, he has demonstrated his ability to be influential in multiple positions on the field. The touch map displays his proficiency in playing a significant role in initiating plays from the center, but he is also capable of covering significant ground in order to apply pressure and influence the game in various aspects.

Ten Hag has a vast amount of familiarity in shaping numerous young talents in football. He has coached players such as Frenkie De Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Ryan Gravenberch, and Mohammed Kudus, who are all considered some of the most promising prospects of the sport. It appears that the Dutch coach is sharing his acquired knowledge and skills with a young English footballer, who is currently 18 years old.

But for Mainoo and other young talented players at Old Trafford, Ten Hag's advice is to discover their own path.

According to Ten Hag, there is always an opportunity to gain knowledge from fellow players. Specifically addressing Mainoo's talents, he noticed similarities to other players, but emphasized the importance of developing one's unique identity, especially in regards to their skills. Thus, he encourages Mainoo to cultivate a personal style that is aligned with his abilities.

Every day, we motivate him to push himself to newer heights, and he responds positively. He is easy to train and eager to improve, which is an excellent trait to possess for a young player. He has made remarkable advancements in a brief period due to his tenacity, and we're impressed by his potential at just 18 years old.

"I feel the same way about Garnacho, and I am optimistic that other players like Forson and Kambwala will also make great strides."

Furthermore, we have provided temporary transfers to certain players such as Dan Gore, and we are optimistic that they will develop the necessary skills and abilities to reach the standards required for Manchester United.

Over the cold season, Garnacho has made a big impression. He is known as an Argentinian and is currently placed at 12th* among the best players for making shots and creating opportunities per 90 minutes, averaging about 4.9.

Ten Hag expressed his perspective on how his youthful winger has transitioned from being a substitute to a consistent first-team player.

He stated that the primary factors contributing to his development as a player were his abilities and willingness to improve. Additionally, he demonstrated a receptiveness to coaching in a demanding setting.

"He was entitled to the opportunity, he seized it, and that's how it should happen."

Before the games in the middle of the week,

Watching Wolves Vs Man Utd: Tips?

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