Kobbie Mainoo and ‘the arrogance of timing’ – former Man Utd coach explains why midfielder appears to have so much time on the ball.

During a conversation with Erik ten Hag earlier in the season, the focus was on Kobbie Mainoo, and the verdict was clear: Mainoo exudes composure and maturity beyond his years, as described by ten Hag to Sky Sports. He brings a sense of calmness and a deep understanding of the game to the team.

This composure factor, highlighted twice by ten Hag, becomes evident when observing Mainoo play. Despite his young age of 18, he seems to operate on a different timescale compared to his peers, finding pockets of space and time where others can’t. But what sets him apart? What exactly is he doing differently?

At the elite level of football, basic ball control and passing skills are a given. However, Mainoo’s gameplay goes beyond mere simplicity. Even amidst the chaos of midfield battles and opposing pressure, he makes it look effortless.

Paul McGuinness, a former Manchester United academy coach, sheds light on Mainoo’s approach. McGuinness emphasizes Mainoo’s preparatory actions before receiving the ball, which creates the illusion of having ample time on the ball. Unlike amateur players who assess their options after receiving the ball, Mainoo anticipates his moves in advance, making swift movements to create space and set up his next play with just one touch.

This strategic anticipation not only saves crucial milliseconds but also allows Mainoo to outmaneuver opponents effectively. By maintaining close ball control, he keeps his options open, making him unpredictable and difficult to defend against.

McGuinness introduces the concept of “the arrogance of timing,” a trait that Mainoo possesses. This ability to wait until the last moment before executing a move can turn the opponent’s pressure into an advantage. Mainoo’s first senior goal, a 97th-minute winner against Wolves, exemplifies this perfectly, showcasing his poise, confidence, and impeccable timing.

In addition to his ball control skills, Mainoo’s proficiency in dribbling sets him apart, as evidenced by his impressive performance against Luton, where he completed six dribbles, the most by any Manchester United player in recent memory. Despite not being exceptionally quick, his close control and efficient changes of direction allow him to navigate through opposing defenses with ease.

Mainoo’s tendency to keep it simple most of the time adds another layer to his game. By consistently making the right decisions and executing simple passes, he maintains a level of unpredictability that catches opponents off guard when he does attempt something extraordinary.

Ten Hag’s praise for Mainoo’s composure and maturity extends to his decision-making on the field. Mainoo’s ability to remain composed even in high-pressure situations, coupled with his leadership qualities, makes him a valuable asset to any team.

In essence, Mainoo’s playing style epitomizes control and authority. Amidst the chaos of a frenzied match, he remains the orchestrator, calmly dictating the flow of the game and asserting his dominance on the field.