Adam Wharton vs Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton have enjoyed a similar rise to stardom over the last 12 months.
Wharton joined Crystal Palace for an initial fee of £18 million at the start of 2024 after impressing in the Championship at Blackburn Rovers.
Kobbie Mainoo instead emerged straight from Manchester United’s academy, quickly becoming a key player for United.
Both were selected by Gareth Southgate for the Euros, though Mainoo played more minutes, sparking debate over whether Wharton should have seen more game time.
Both players operate in their teams’ double pivot, and the midfield battle between them could be decisive.
Mainoo and United’s midfield will need to prevent Wharton from getting on the ball in deep areas and dictating the tempo with his impressive range of passing.
If Wharton is able to release Palace’s attackers, United’s defence could find themselves constantly running backwards, and United may lose control of the match.
However, if Mainoo can exploit the spaces around Wharton, receiving and turning past him, a key trait of his game – Palace will find themselves on the back foot.
Although the two are close off the pitch after their time together with England, many will view this clash as a battle for the future, with both vying to partner Declan Rice in England’s midfield.
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