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Dutch football legend Clarence Seedorf has shared his thoughts on the comparisons between himself and Manchester United’s young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo was a standout performer for United during the challenging 2023/24 season.
The 19-year-old’s breakthrough provided a glimmer of hope for supporters as he impressed with his calm and composed performances in midfield.
In a short period, Mainoo solidified his place in Erik ten Hag’s lineup and became a key member of the starting XI.
His strong performances earned him a call-up to the senior England team, and currently, the academy graduate is part of Gareth Southgate’s final squad for Euro 2024. Southgate recently stated that Mainoo could start in the tournament without any hesitation.
Following Mainoo’s impressive goal against Wolves in February, Rio Ferdinand drew comparisons between the youngster and Seedorf.
Ferdinand commented, “I’m not saying he’s on the same level, or that he’s reached that status yet, but he reminds me of Clarence Seedorf. The way he maneuvers in tight spaces and handles the ball and his body positioning at times.”
Former United player Wes Brown echoed similar sentiments back in March when he told Squawka, “[He’s] very composed and there’s been a lot of discussion about him. But for me, he plays like Clarence Seedorf.”
“Even his running style, ball control, and shielding the ball. I faced Clarence a few times and he was exceptional, tall, strong, carried out his role perfectly, and had the composure to perform for a top team in big matches. I would say Clarence Seedorf.”
Seedorf has now responded to these comparisons and embraced them, highlighting a key skill where Mainoo surpasses him.
The former Real Madrid and AC Milan star shared with the Vibe with Five podcast, “He (Mainoo) reminds me of a young me in terms of his physique and movement.”
“But the remarkable thing he possesses that I didn’t have is his maturity on the ball at such a young age.”
“The sky’s the limit for him.”
🗣️ Clarence Seedorf on Kobbie Mainoo’s quality ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/ofl7zJxSkL
— FIVE (@FIVEUK) June 11, 2024
It’s high praise for Mainoo coming from one of the game’s greats.
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