Kobbie Mainoo, a recent academy graduate, has been dragged into the background by Manchester United after his outstanding preseason performance against Arsenal. The midfielder impressed during his team’s convincing 2-0 victory, sparking speculation about whether he may fill the gap in Old Trafford’s midfield.

Alejandro Garnacho was the Red Devils’ standout player last season, making 19 league appearances and contributing three goals and two assists. The Argentinean international’s development was nevertheless expedited when Ralf Rangnick gave him his professional debut.

But in Mainoo, who played 10 minutes in the Premier League last season, Ten Hag seems to have found his own hidden treasure in the United system. However, the 18-year-old’s preseason performances suggest that he is in line for more opportunities, and according to ESPN, United are trying to manage expectations by keeping a watch on how much time he spends in the spotlight. The midfielder was reportedly scheduled to join established talents like Raphael Varane and Aaron Wan-Bissaka at a club-sponsored event on Thursday at a hotel in New Jersey. Mainoo was not invited, nevertheless, in order to keep him away from the “media glare.”

Ten Hag has also made an effort to temper expectations surrounding the midfielder, but when asked about the growth of the young player at the Pingry Macrae’s Theatre, he was unable to help but sing the young man’s praises. “He gets his chance because he deserves it,” he said.He shown a high level, and he must now demonstrate it in games. So the preseason is the ideal time to test him. He offers a chance to join the team and receive playing time. We’ll see, but I have faith that he can pull it off, so we’ll have to wait and watch.

After being chosen for the third straight preseason friendly, Mainoo impressed for United against Arsenal. Throughout the first half, he kept midfielders Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz under control by recovering the ball far within his own half and launching assaults from there. Given the Red Devils’ crowded schedule for the upcoming season, it wouldn’t be sυrprising to see Mainoo play frequently for Ten Hag in cup competitions, especially given that the top brass at the Theatre of Dreams are unwilling to consider loan offers for the playmaker.