Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been advised that Kobbie Mainoo isn’t yet ready to take over Casemiro’s role permanently amid speculations of the Brazilian midfielder’s potential departure from Old Trafford in January.
Ten Hag is striving to discover the right formula at Old Trafford this season, facing challenges as several key players have struggled to find their top form. The midfield has been a particularly tricky area for Ten Hag, experimenting with various player combinations.
United secured the season-long loan of Morocco’s midfielder Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina in the summer, considering a permanent move. However, the 27-year-old hasn’t hit top form yet, leaving uncertainty regarding Ten Hag’s decision on a long-term deal.
The decision regarding Amrabat might rely on the futures of two other midfielders under the spotlight lately. Christian Eriksen, no longer a regular starter, and the £70m signing, Casemiro, seem closer to an exit.
Casemiro, particularly, has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia after injuries affected his performance this season. A recent report claimed Ten Hag cleared Casemiro among a quartet worth £220m for a January exit.
Despite growing support for Mainoo, who’s impressed in his initial five senior appearances for United, Robbie Savage, speaking to TEAMtalk, suggests caution in tagging Mainoo as Casemiro’s successor. Savage acknowledges Mainoo’s composure, technical abilities, and confidence but emphasizes the early stage of his career.
Savage commends United’s academy for producing talents like Mainoo, highlighting his seamless integration into the senior squad and the faith shown by Ten Hag. However, he stresses the importance of experience alongside Mainoo for his development.
Reports indicate Ten Hag’s appreciation of Mainoo’s performances, with his salary reportedly set to double at Old Trafford. Savage believes Mainoo has tremendous potential if he continues learning and remains grounded but urges restraint in labeling him as an immediate replacement for Casemiro.
Currently, Mainoo’s contract extends until summer 2027, with an option for an additional year, but his impressive growth suggests an inevitable extension and a significant pay raise in the future.