Ryan Giggs: Mainoo Can Add Elite Passing at Man Utd

Ryan Giggs has backed Kobbie Mainoo to add a higher-level forward passing game after praising the Manchester United midfielder’s acceleration, strength and resilience in Sunday’s derby defeat.

Key takeaways

Mainoo completed the full match as United lost 1-0 to 10-man Manchester City at Old Trafford.
Giggs highlighted the youngster’s burst over short distances rather than outright speed.
The former United winger said Mainoo has the physical power to complement his technical ability.
Giggs believes Mainoo could develop the vision and long-range passing associated with Paul Scholes.
Mainoo was running on empty late on but continued trying to make things happen in midfield.

Giggs sees another level in Mainoo

Giggs said Mainoo is already a “very, very good player”, pointing to his explosive first steps and his ability to cope physically in central areas.

He argued that the next stage for the young midfielder is to spot attacking options earlier, particularly a pass beyond the opposition line or a switch of play over distance. Giggs said a midfielder should first consider the forward ball, including a possible 30-yard diagonal.

Mainoo already has dribbling ability and a sharp short-passing game, and Giggs said there is no limit to where he could go if he adds those more ambitious deliveries. He was asked whether Mainoo can reach Scholes’ standard of vision and gave an encouraging response.

Derby workload underlines United’s faith

Mainoo started against City and stayed on the pitch for all 90 minutes despite United’s 1-0 loss at Old Trafford. City finished with 10 players, but United could not find an equaliser.

Giggs felt for Mainoo during the closing stages, when fatigue began to show. He noted that the midfielder lost possession while attempting to keep doing the right things, but said he simply no longer had the energy required.

At his age, Mainoo is still learning the demands of being a central midfielder for Manchester United while playing through major matches. The club’s hierarchy are understood to be pleased with his rapid progress under Michael Carrick, with the focus now on sharpening his forward distribution ahead of the next Premier League fixtures.