Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, has showered praise on the young talent Kobbie Mainoo following his dramatic winning goal against Wolves. The youngster was compared to AC Milan icon Clarence Seedorf by Ferdinand after his stunning performance in Thursday night's 4-3 win over Wolves at Molineux.
Mainoo, a Stockport-born midfielder, showcased his exceptional skills when he scored a stunning individual goal that secured all three points for Manchester United. After the team had squandered a 3-1 lead and conceded a 95th-minute equaliser from Pedro Neto, they seemed destined to leave the Black Country with just one point. However, Mainoo had different plans.
The young ace rode two challenges and opened up a shooting angle before caressing a low effort into the far corner of the net. This moment of individual brilliance brought an end to what had been an exhilarating game.
Mainoo is starting to cement his place in starting lineup
Mainoo also scored in last weekend's 4-2 win over Newport County in the FA Cup match where he clinched his first-ever goal for United. His excellent performance in midfield justified his fourth successive start and continues to impress spectators and ex-United players alike.
Ferdinand likened him with former Netherlands international Seedorf who is known for his exceptional skills on field. This comparison speaks volumes about Mainoo’s potential as he continues to wow those who watch him play.
Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, said:
"I'm not saying he is of the same ability and he's not that player yet, but there are signs, he gives me vibes of Clarence Seedorf of the way he can manipulate certain situations,"
"The way he manipulates this ball, the way he shifts it and just pops it through (Max) Kilman's legs and to show the ability to score. Some players there see the headlines and the back pages but he just caresses it."
Ferdinand also criticised United’s display against Wolves
Despite praising Mainoos' performance and acknowledging that United's overall display in the Wolves fixture was worthy of all three points, Ferdinand did express concerns about their struggles during particularly challenging periods in away matches.
He pointed out how United were comfortably leading at 2-0 but nearly paid heavily due to missed opportunities and poor decision-making which allowed Wolves back into the game. This highlights the need for United to maintain their focus and composure throughout the match, especially when playing away from home.
Kobbie Mainoo's recent performances have not only earned him a spot in Manchester United's starting lineup but also drawn comparisons with football greats like Clarence Seedorf. As he continues to impress on the field, fans and critics alike will be watching his progress closely. However, as Ferdinand pointed out, Manchester United must address their struggles during challenging periods in matches to ensure consistent success.
