Manchester United fans can expect to see Kobbie Mainoo featuring considerably less in the coming weeks, according to GiveMeSport.
Obviously, the youngster’s potential omissions won’t be based on recent performances, as he has continued the new campaign where he finished the last one – in stellar form.
It is, however, due to the fact that club chiefs are growing concerned that the 19-year-old could become burnt out with the minutes he’s played since bursting onto the scene last November. After making his maiden start at Goodison Park, Mainoo proceeded to start another 23 Premier League matches, totalling 1,940 minutes in the top flight last term.
After club action culminated with the Reds’ FA Cup triumph in May, which he also played an integral role in, the midfielder was picked by Gareth Southgate to represent England at the Euros. He played in all but one match throughout their journey to the final – 371 minutes in total – meaning he returned to Carrington for pre-season having had little to no rest following his first-ever season at senior level.
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United to take burden off of Mainoo with essential rotation
Erik ten Hag has since utilised Mainoo from the off in each of United’s opening four league fixtures but did award him a much-deserved rest for their midweek Carabao Cup clash with Barnsley.
It’s thought that the arrival of Manuel Ugarte, the form of Christian Eriksen and the impending return of sidelined Mason Mount will give the manager enough options to allow Mainoo some respite while fixtures come thick and fast in all competitions. The alternative could see the starlet sustain another lengthy injury while he’s still developing.
