Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has expressed profound admiration for Kobbie Mainoo's abilities after observing the young midfielder in England training sessions, asserting that his presence significantly enhances Bruno Fernandes' performances for Manchester United.
Training Ground Revelation
Hasselbaink, who worked alongside Manchester United's interim assistant head coach Steve Holland within the England setup, witnessed Mainoo's technical prowess firsthand. He described moments during training drills where both coaches exchanged glances of astonishment at the midfielder's confidence and skill on the ball.
"He's very confident on the ball," Hasselbaink remarked. "At times in training, me and Steve Holland were looking at ourselves when Steve was doing some drills on the pitch, we're looking at ourselves when he has the ball and it's just so beautiful to see. The boy can play, and he wants to play, and he's not scared to play. That's really what you need."
Catalyst for Fernandes' Excellence
Speaking on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football, Hasselbaink elaborated on Mainoo's specific impact on Bruno Fernandes, who operates in the number ten position for the Red Devils. He emphasised that the young midfielder's qualities directly contribute to elevating the Portuguese playmaker's game.
"We talk about Bruno Fernandes in the No.10 position: he makes Bruno Fernandes play better," Hasselbaink stated unequivocally.
Resurgence Under Carrick's Guidance
Mainoo's situation has transformed dramatically since Michael Carrick assumed interim managerial duties at Old Trafford. Having made no Premier League starts this season prior to last weekend's Manchester derby, the midfielder has now featured in Carrick's opening two matches, signalling a new chapter in his United career.
This revival follows a period of uncertainty under previous manager Ruben Amorim, during which Mainoo received minimal playing time. The lack of opportunities prompted speculation about his future, including loan move discussions last summer and persistent January transfer rumours, with Napoli reportedly showing interest.
Carrick's Development Role
Michael Carrick appears poised to play a pivotal role in nurturing Mainoo's considerable talent, expressing clear optimism about the twenty-year-old's potential under his guidance. The interim manager acknowledged the natural fluctuations in a young player's development while highlighting Mainoo's recent contributions.
"I think part of a career is a few ups and downs and sometimes it goes in different trajectories," Carrick commented. "But I think we've seen last week what Kobbie can bring. It was great. He's quite straight-faced and he doesn't give you an awful lot, but you could see the way he played and he expressed himself. He was enjoying himself and to see him like that was great."
Maintaining Momentum
Hasselbaink urged Mainoo to sustain his current level of performance, recognising the importance of consistency for both club and potential international aspirations. With the World Cup approaching, impressive displays could secure the midfielder a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad.
"He needs to keep on doing what he's doing at the moment for Man United," Hasselbaink advised. "It's only two matches, but he needs to stay, first of all, in the team, and he needs to play at this level."
The former striker's insights reveal how training ground excellence translates to competitive advantage, with Mainoo's technical assurance and fearless approach creating the ideal conditions for Fernandes to flourish. As Manchester United navigate their transitional period, this midfield dynamic could prove instrumental to their immediate success.
