Not Bruno: Hargreaves says Utd have a ‘perfect’ star who’s a ‘proper ball player’, ‘everyone loves’ watching him | OneFootball

Owen Hargreaves, like the majority of the Manchester United faithful, was delighted to see Kobbie Mainoo back in the starting XI yesterday.

The midfield starlet was granted just his second start of the campaign for the visit of Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup third round.

Prior to the tie, Mainoo’s only start in 2025/2026 came in United’s Carabao Cup opener away to Grimsby Town, and culminated with the Reds losing on penalties to their League Two opponents.

*Mainoo in the Premier League this term (Transfermarkt)

Last night, the match unfortunately held near enough the same fate, as United were once again eliminated from a cup competition at the first hurdle.

Brighton secured a 2-1 win at Old Trafford to book their spot in the fourth round, confirming that United would be playing their fewest number of games since 1915 (40). 

How Mainoo fared in dismal Brighton defeat

(Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

However, Mainoo’s performance was one that he could be proud of when he departed the field in the 62nd minute.

The 20-year-old, according to StatmanDave, created the most chances and completed the most passes of any player on the pitch.