He just wants to improve and have fun on the pitch – Ten Hag hails Manchester United player

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken highly of Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo.

Facing the media ahead of United’s trip to Brentford, Ten Hag revealed he had spoken to Kobbie Mainoo about trying to keep his feet on the ground after his sudden rise to stardom.

“So far he’s handled the situation very well. If he gets carried away, of course, me as a manager and we as coaches, we will intervene,” Ten Hag told reporters.

“But so far it is not necessary because he wants to play football, he wants to win, he wants to give his best every day.

“He wants to improve and just have fun on the pitch. Fun for him is to play dominant, to dictate the game and win the game.”

Ten Hag also spoke about Mainoo’s character both on and off the pitch this season.

Interestingly, Ten Hag has said he was ‘not surprised’ how quickly Mainoo has adapted to international football after his recent promotion from the U21s.

“I thought it was very good but we are not surprised. We know what he is capable of, he can very quickly adapt to high levels. It looks very natural and we are very happy for him,” the Dutchman added.

“Of course, we are also very [proud], it’s great for the academy of Manchester United to bring up a player so young going into the national team, it’s a big compliment for the whole club.

“For himself because he did it but also all the ones who worked with him during his time in the academy, it’s very good news for Manchester United.”