November 27th 2023.
Kobbie Mainoo put in a stellar performance in Manchester United's 3-0 win over Everton, and Gary Neville believes he would not look out of place in Manchester City's midfield.
Mainoo was handed his first Premier League start on Sunday, and he didn't disappoint. Bruno Fernandes even went so far as to name him the team's Man of the Match after the game.
Neville was impressed by Mainoo's composure in what could have been a hostile environment. He praised the 18-year-old's technical ability and skill, noting that it was clear why he had been picked by Erik ten Hag.
"He's gone in here at Goodison Park, in what could have been the most ferocious atmospheres for many a year, and he looked class," Neville said on Sky Sports. "We know he's class, we know he's got class, he's got that ability, but he looked class in that environment."
Neville went on to say that Mainoo stood out even in the most difficult parts of the game. He praised his composure and grace, noting how he always seemed to know where his teammates were.
"The biggest compliment I can pay him, and it hurts to say this, I hope people can take this in the right spirit... he looked like a Manchester City player," Neville said. "I was watching him and thinking, 'that's a player that Pep Guardiola will be looking at and thinking, I want him in my midfield, that's what my midfield players do.'"
It's clear that Mainoo has a bright future ahead of him. He will have to face other challenges, injuries, and other players vying for his spot, but he has already proven that he can handle the pressure.
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