Timothy Fosu-Mensah credits his teammates and coaches for maintaining his positive mentality.
Manchester United have granted debuts to many youngsters this season, though the most promising appears to be Timothy Fosu-Mensah.
The academy product made his debut as a substitute for Marcos Rojo in the 3-2 victory over league rivals Arsenal. He continued his break into the first team by starting in the win over Watford, but has since only featured twice as a substitute in limited action.
Much of that lessened involvement should be attributed to the defense returning to near full fitness, with Rojo currently the top option at left-back. Fosu-Mensah played well in his first matches at the senior level.
Speaking to ManUtd.com about his debut, the Dutch under-19 international praised several teammates and the managers for helping calm his nerves:
"“I was overwhelmed, very overwhelmed when I came on.When I was sat on the bench, I was more nervous than when I had to play football itself for the first time.”“Thankfully, the players around me helped me very much. Michael Carrick, Daley Blind and Guillermo Varela really helped me to play well and do what I had to do.”“After the game, Carrick came up to me plus Memphis and Blind. The manager also came to me and congratulated me. Ryan Giggs as well. Everyone told me I’d done well and it was very pleasing for me.”"
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Any youth player making a senior debut for Manchester United would be understandably nervous, but it’s reassuring to know that the other players were willing and able to calm Fosu-Mensah’s nerves. Carrick’s experience and Memphis’s and Blind’s international relation likely made the discussion natural and beneficial.
Even better is that the manager and assistant manager made sure to speak to the debutante, a sign that Giggs could be more prepared for a managerial role than supporters expect.
The positive reassurance must have paid off, as the player’s full debut was relatively error-free against Watford. Commenting on his involvement in the clean sheet, the 18-year-old said:
"“It was my first start but I think, as I’ve said, the players around me helped me out,” he added. “For a young boy of 18 to be put in the team for such a big game shows confidence from the manager in me. So I wanted to pay that back with a good performance.”"
Fosu-Mensah must have made a positive impression on Louis van Gaal with his strong defensive displays, to the point that he will surely be the first option for replacement if a centre-back is injured.
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But for now, he will have to continue to improve before he receives another spell. His time with the senior team may be on a temporary hiatus until the summer tour, given the importance of a strong finish to the season. But Fosu-Mensah isn’t deterred:
"“Obviously, I will keep working hard. As a young player, you have to do that and keep listening to all the advice from the manager and coaches, especially if you want to play more games. And when the chance comes, you have to play well and make the most of it. I’m happy but, as I’ve said, I think I have to keep my head down and keeping working on my game.”"
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As Manchester United’s brightest defensive prospect, it will be crucial for Fosu-Mensah to maintain a good attitude. Van Gaal has done his part in limiting the pressure on his shoulders, and the player must now do his part to keep improving.