'Told the world': Rio Ferdinand says one Man Utd star announced himself with statement display vs Man City
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has lavished high praise on Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo finally made his first league start of the 2025-26 season in the 2-0 win over Manchester City.
Deployed in a midfield pivot alongside Casemiro in a classic 4-2-3-1 system, Mainoo allowed Bruno Fernandes the freedom to operate higher up as the number 10.
The academy graduate produced a composed and intelligent performance, dictating the tempo and helping United wrestle control of the contest.
Ferdinand was quick to underline the mental strength and maturity shown by the young midfielder.
He said on his podcast Rio Ferdinand Presents: “One thing to come out this weekend, Kobbie Mainoo told the world ‘I can play for Man United’.
“We need to appreciate the pressure on his young shoulders going into the Derby as a local lad.
“He has come in and put a performance like that. That tells you he is confident and he has got it.”
Mainoo showed he belongs at Man United
It has been a difficult spell for Mainoo, who has lost his place at United and in the England team.
With Michael Carrick at the helm, it looks like Mainoo has been given a timely lifeline ahead of the World Cup.
The 20-year-old was unsung hero with Casemiro at the base of the midfield.
He constantly made himself available for short passes and showed impressive discipline and awareness without the ball.
One moment in particular drew huge applause from the Old Trafford crowd, as a sharp body swerve left City’s new signing Antoine Semenyo trailing helplessly.
Mainoo applied 77 high pressures against City, bettered only by Bruno Fernandes’ game-leading tally of 81.
He also registered an outstanding 91% pass completion rate and successfully executed both of his attempted long balls.
Defensively, the youngster rounded off a complete performance with three tackles, two interceptions and two clearances.
If there is one figure capable of unlocking the very best version of Mainoo, it may well be new head coach Michael Carrick.
Stats from Fotmob.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .