Kobbie Mainoo is rapidly becoming the heartbeat of Manchester United's midfield. The 21-year-old academy graduate pulled on his boyhood colors for the 99th time in the thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool, and if he features again this season, he'll join the prestigious "hundred club" at Old Trafford.

What's turning this youngster into a complete midfielder? According to fan Sam Drinkwater on The Devils' Advocate podcast, it's the invaluable experience of playing alongside veterans Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes. "He is one of those players that, when he's on the ball, you feel safe," Drinkwater explained. "You feel he is going to make the right decision—or at least the decision I want him to make. That attribute is so underrated in a footballer."

It hasn't been an entirely smooth ride this season. Mainoo's minutes were limited earlier in the campaign under former boss Ruben Amorim, but Michael Carrick's influence has helped revitalize both the team and the youngster's form. While Mainoo's breakout campaign came under Erik ten Hag in 2023-24—where he logged 1,924 minutes across 24 games—many believe he's now an even more polished player.

"What we are talking about is a player who has certainly improved from two years ago when he was at his best for Man Utd," Drinkwater added. "I think he is a better all-rounded player now."

Fellow podcast guest Nick McCabe drew an impressive comparison: "He is looking like a proper player now. When you watch Frenkie de Jong for Barcelona, the way they carry themselves across the pitch, the way they link—he is that perfect piece between Casemiro and Bruno. He links it really well, and he is only 21."

For a midfielder still in his early twenties, Mainoo is already displaying the composure, vision, and decision-making that define elite players. If his trajectory continues, United fans may be watching the rise of a generational talent right before their eyes.