Friedel backs Rashford and Mainoo to excel under Pochettino at Manchester United

Former Premier League goalkeeper Brad Friedel has expressed confidence that Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo will flourish under the guidance of new Manchester United manager Mauricio Pochettino. Friedel, who has a wealth of experience in the game, pointed to Pochettino's successful tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, particularly his work with Dele Alli, as evidence of the Argentine's coaching prowess.

Pochettino's arrival on a two-and-a-half-year contract comes at a critical juncture for Manchester United, who recently parted ways with Michael Carrick following an eight-match winless streak that has left the club languishing in 18th place in the Premier League. This dismal run has seen Rashford struggle significantly, failing to contribute a goal or assist in any of his eight appearances this season.

Friedel highlighted how Pochettino transformed Alli's career after signing him as an 18-year-old in 2015. Under Pochettino's mentorship, Alli scored 55 goals and provided 48 assists in 194 matches, earning consecutive PFA Young Player of the Year and Team of the Year honors during the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons. Friedel believes that a similar trajectory could await Rashford and Mainoo, as Pochettino is known for his ability to develop young players and create a positive environment for them to thrive.

"I think as opposed to trying to get a senior player on board, I think he'll put his arm around some of the younger players that have incredible potential," Friedel stated. He emphasized that players like Rashford could significantly benefit from Pochettino's approach, which focuses on making players feel valued and motivated while demanding hard work and commitment.

Pochettino's demand for commitment and effort

Friedel also pointed out that Pochettino will not tolerate a lack of effort, regardless of a player's reputation. This mentality is crucial for a Manchester United side that has often been criticized for being outworked in matches. The former goalkeeper noted, "We've watched many Manchester United games and some of the games we've actually watched and we've come away saying, 'They're just getting outworked at times.' You can't have that."

As Pochettino prepares to take the reins, attention will also turn to how he manages club captain Bruno Fernandes, who has rejected a second contract offer and is facing uncertainty regarding his future at the club. Friedel suggested that while Pochettino will want to keep talented players like Fernandes, he will not hesitate to part ways with those who do not fully commit to the team's culture and work ethic.

Let's Call It What It Is

"I think he'll want his talent at the football club, but he won't tolerate it if he does have an ego," Friedel remarked. He believes that Pochettino's focus will be on building a cohesive team culture, and if players do not fit into that vision, they may find themselves out of the squad.

Pochettino's tenure at Manchester United is set to begin with a challenging Premier League match against fierce rivals Liverpool on November 22. Instilling a relentless work ethic and securing full commitment from both senior and young players will be vital for lifting the club out of the relegation zone and restoring its status as a competitive force in English football.