Kobbie Mainoo’s rise through the Manchester United ranks was not without difficulties
Despite making three appearances last season, he was not a regular member of the first-team squad. Erik Ten Hag’s use of the young talent throughout the preseason, on the other hand, suggests a potential breakthrough when he returns from injury.
Last season, the presence of Kobbie Mainoo warmed the cold evenings at Leigh Sports Village. United’s academy matches were held there, and Mainoo’s progress was nothing short of remarkable. He was instrumental in the FA Youth Cup success in 2021/22 and seamlessly transitioned to Premier League 2 competition.
Mainoo’s outstanding efforts in the academy won him a League Cup debut against Charlton, followed by a Premier League debut just a few weeks later. It was obvious that he was destined to shine in preseason.
“It’s an incredible sensation.” “I’ve been with this club my entire life, and it’s all led up to tonight,” Mainoo remarked following his January debut. “Having my family here, surrounding me, is incredible.” My entire immediate family was present.
I believe inviting anyone else would have been excessive! They were all there to cheer me on, and I waved to them after the game. The squad sheet was posted, and I was just getting started, so it was a bit of a surprise, but I figured, I’ve had to do something.”
While there were a few butterflies, the mood was largely upbeat. I remember feeling like way when I played in the Youth Cup final at Old Trafford. It was incredible, and getting to experience it again was great.”
Mainoo is described as a likable, hard-working, and polite young player. What some may not know is that less than 24 hours after making his first-team debut, he was in Staffordshire to support his Under-18 teammates against Stoke. His commitment and mentality have left a strong impression on those close to him.
His absence from Premier League matchday squads at the end of the previous season was due to a minor injury. It was evident that he was seen as part of the first-team, as Erik ten Hag started him in every meaningful preseason friendly, including matches against Leeds, Lyon, Arsenal, and Real Madrid.
Prior to the preseason tour of the United States, it was revealed that Mainoo was not going out on loan and would have a first-team role in the new campaign, as reflected by his starting appearances in the USA.
The question was whether Mainoo could perform against high-quality opposition across the Atlantic, and he answered it emphatically. He showed skill and calm against teams such as Arsenal, and he held his own against players such as Declan Rice, Martin degaard, and Kai Havertz.
His midfield debut against Real Madrid, alongside Casemiro and Mason Mount, was very noteworthy. Mainoo was placed against Luka Modric, Jude Bellingham, and Aurelien Tchouameni, giving no space for error.
In a photo with the former Borussia Dortmund player, he was jokingly dubbed to as ‘England’s best midfielder and Bellingham’ by social media users. Unfortunately, Mainoo’s promising start was cut short due to an ankle injury sustained in a collision with Casemiro. Despite the setback, there remains hope about his resilience and return to the pitch.
about his resilience and return to the pitch.Mainoo’s current social media activity hints that he is planning a comeback. It will be exciting to see him back in action and see if he can make an impact on the first team.
Ten Hag highlighted Mainoo in a recent news conference, expressing his view that he is ready to take on a critical role. Ten Hag remarked at Mainoo’s possible contributions in the upcoming winter season, despite the fact that he is not now accessible.
