Manchester United legend Nemanja Vidic compares Kobbie Mainoo to a former Ballon d’Or winner after the youngster played against Liverpool
- Kobbie Mainoo scored a wonder goal in Man United’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool
- The talented youngster has now been praised by United great Nemanja Vidic.
- Could Erik ten Hag end up at Ajax? Listen to the It’s All Kicking Off podcast
Manchester United great Nemanja Vidic has compared Kobbie Mainoo to former Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric following his impressive display against Liverpool.
Mainoo has quickly established himself as an undisputed starter under Erik ten Hag this season, having been promoted from the academy ranks after attracting attention.
His rapid rise also saw him make his England debut in the defeat to Brazil at Wembley, with teammates and pundits heaping praise on the 18-year-old.
The youngster shone again in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool at the weekend after scoring a wonder goal to give United the lead against their historic rivals at Old Trafford.
Mainoo twisted smartly inside the penalty area after receiving the ball at his feet and lofted a superb strike into the top corner, his first ever home goal for the club.
Manchester United prodigy Kobbie Mainoo caught the eye in Liverpool draw
Nemanja Vidic praised Mainoo and compared him to former Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric
And Vidic, speaking at the final whistle, praised the prodigy’s awareness of the game.
“Mainoo has been fantastic, especially his knowledge of these areas,” Vidic told Premier League Productions. “He reminds me of Modric sometimes.
“He always feels who is behind him. You see, he took the first touch, he went sideways straight away, and then it was a great strike. It is difficult to defend against him.
Mainoo has proven his versatility in both deeper and more advanced midfield roles since breaking into the first team, but his long-term first-choice position is unclear.
Wayne Rooney, however, believes he is better placed to play further forward.
Vidic believes Mainoo shares Modric’s ability to scan around him and make good decisions
Mainoo scored a wonder goal against Liverpool after cutting and leaning into the corner
“Yes, he is (more than a midfielder),” Rooney said. “I also saw him play against Nottingham Forest. He played a little higher, so he can definitely do it.
“When he got the ball he headed towards the Liverpool backline. Great first touch and the finish is incredible.
The wonderkid has started each of United’s last 15 Premier League games and is also in contention to be part of England’s squad for the European Championship.
Ten Hag shared his pride in Mainoo’s progress earlier this season, saying: “We are very happy for him and proud that the academy is breeding such a player.
“It’s a great compliment for the whole club and everyone who worked with him during his time at the academy. It’s very good news for Manchester United.
