Why Kobbie is equipped to succeed at United

Mainoo seized his opportunity to star in the Reds’ engine room while Casemiro was sidelined with a hamstring injury, between November and January, but the pair have recently kindled a solid partnership in the middle of the park.

Erik ten Hag’s side have won all five games Casemiro and Mainoo have started together, the most memorable of which saw Mainoo strike in the dying seconds to decide a thrilling match at Wolves, 4-3.

The Academy graduate may not turn 19 until April, but Casemiro – one of the very best midfielders of his generation – loves what he sees when it comes to Kobbie’s character and approach to the game.

“First off, I'd like to congratulate Kobbie. He's only 18 and he's already a starter at a club like Manchester United,” said Casemiro, in an upcoming episode of TeamViewer Diaries.

“It's not easy, there's a lot of pressure. But I think United will have a top player for the next years, easily.

“He's a top player. He's exceptional. He's a humble, hard-working player. He knows how to listen. He's a great player.

“Since I play alongside him, I know Manchester United will have one of the best midfielders in the Premier League for the next years, easily.

“I think we have to recognise his value. He's a great kid. I'm very happy that he's on our side. As long as he keeps his head on straight, just as he's doing now, I think we'll have a great player for many, many years here at United.”

Given his myriad career achievements, which include five UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid, Casemiro feels well placed to offer Mainoo – 13 years his junior – advice.

But the Brazilian believes the teenager is mentally strong enough to ride the ups and downs that football will inevitably bring.

“Obviously, it's a long and tough journey,” the Selecao captain added. “I always try to tell him this: that things aren't easy, that you always have to work hard.

“You always need to want more and more. That's what football is.

“But you can tell he has his head on straight. He's a great player. Without a doubt, we'll have a great player on our side for a long time.”

And Casemiro is happy to be a sounding board for all of United’s youngsters, with plenty getting opportunities in the side under Ten Hag this term.

“Obviously, you always try to give tips, and talk about your experience, but I always say that actions offer the best experience.

“The examples you set and your actions, on and off the pitch, are the most important things. That's what I always try to tell them.

“I try to be a role model for them - on and off the pitch.”

Watch every episode of TeamViewer Diaries here.