Tuesday night at Old Trafford, Manchester United overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat Aston Villa 3-2. Although Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund scored the goals and are deserving of praise, Kobbie Mainoo was among the game’s top players.

Since making his Premier League debut against Everton last month, the 18-year-old midfielder has been a constant for the Red Devils, and he carried that form into the match against the Villans.

His outstanding performance in the much-needed win thrilled the goal scorers, who responded on Instagram to the thrilling Boxing Day match.

In addition to winning five of the six aerial duels he challenged for, the Man United academy graduate completed 34 passes out of 49 touches, made three clearances, won two of his three attempted tackles, and made one interception.

The Red Devils were behind 2-0 at the break, thus most of the players didn’t really get going until the second half. However, Mainoo was excellent the entire game until it was almost over and he was taken off.

Given the pressure that had been building on him, Man United manager Erik ten Hag was relieved after the match. He will be hoping that the majority of his players can step up and be as committed and driven as the young wonder.

In their final game of 2023, the Red Devils will play their final game at the City Ground against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The Dutchman, who is trying to convince his team and new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe that he is the right man for the job, will be looking for another strong showing and victory.