‘Arteta has a lot of questions to answer if he fails to win the league title this season with this group of skills that he is carrying, I wish He was at Manchester United, we could have topped the table by now’: Erik Ten Hag recommends one Arsenal player that Kobbie Mainoo must emulate if he truly wants to succeed in his career.

Erik Ten Hag emphasizes the importance of Kobbie Mainoo maintaining high performance levels for Manchester United and adapting his game, drawing parallels to the developments seen in Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden. Mainoo, who has been a consistent presence in Ten Hag’s starting lineup since late November, has played a crucial role in Manchester United’s improved form as they aim for a Champions League spot.
Despite the 18-year-old midfielder being linked to a spot in England’s team for the upcoming European Championship, Ferdinand urges Mainoo to prove himself further. Ferdinand highlights the need for Mainoo to sustain his impressive performance over an extended period while showcasing adaptability as opponents become familiar with his style of play.
Drawing inspiration from Saka and Foden’s experiences at Arsenal and Manchester City, Ferdinand views them as suitable role models for Mainoo. The advice is clear – consistency is key. Ferdinand emphasizes that maintaining the current high level of performance is crucial for Mainoo’s development. He points out the common trend among young players who initially impress but face challenges once opponents adapt to their style.
Ferdinand stresses the importance of Mainoo adding a surprise element to his game, akin to what Saka and Foden have accomplished. The message is clear: Mainoo should not settle for being a one-hit wonder but strive for continuous improvement and evolution in his playing style. Looking up to Saka and Foden, Mainoo is encouraged to see them as examples of players who consistently display their abilities, setting a benchmark for the level of excellence he should aspire to achieve.