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Manchester United won the Carabao Cup against Newcastle 2-0 on Sunday, finally ending a run of six miserable years without a trophy.
Erik ten Hag’s men were clinical on the night as they showed grit defensively as the Red Devils ran out comfortable winners at Wembley.
The Dutch manager was seen joining in the wild celebrations that would follow the referee’s final whistle, his unusual dance routine with summer signings Antony and Lisandro Martinez blew up the internet for good.
Amidst all the chaos, Ten Hag was also seen chatting up young teen prodigy Kobbie Mainoo.
Erik ten Hag talking to 17-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo after winning the Carabao Cup.
Coaching his players even after winning a cup final ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Fu6khz9NEq
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) February 26, 2023
Mainoo is a prospect who has been making waves in United’s academy for some time now, with many at the club pointing to him as one for the future.
The 17-year-old has had a breakout season this season, recently making his league debut after coming on as a late substitute for Marcel Sabitzer during a 3-0 win against Leicester City last week.
A versatile player who can play as a six or eight, Mainoo has an eye for passing and isn’t afraid to go into a tackle.
Barring his one league appearance against the Foxes, the current England Under-18 international has also managed a handful of appearances in multiple cup competitions for the Red Devils.
The fact that Ten Hag took the time to speak to Mainoo after such a high-pressure game, a final no less, shows that he sees potential in the young player and is willing to invest in his development.
For United fans, this is a sign of hope for the future.
The club has always had a rich and proud history of producing local talent, and Mainoo could be the next great player to come out of Carrington.
If he manages to reach his blossoming potential, Erik ten Hag would have played a key role in said development.
The future looks very bright for both the club and the player.
