It was in Houston’s imposing NRG Stadium last July that the value of Mainoo to United first became apparent. Those who had watched him steer the club to FA Youth Cup success and shine through the academy ranks knew there was a serious talent there.
People who had been paying closer attention also knew Erik ten Hag was a big fan. The Dutchman had sought the teenager out in his club suit on the Wembley pitch after the Carabao Cup win against Newcastle to tell him it wouldn’t be long before occasions like this belonged to him. Even Ten Hag couldn’t have believed it would happen this quickly.
Fifteen months later Mainoo was upstaging his more gilded Stockport alumni Phil Foden in an FA Cup final. Now they could share a pitch in England colours in an international tournament.
This story is from the June 09, 2024 edition of MEN on Sunday.
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This story is from the June 09, 2024 edition of MEN on Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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