Kobbie Mainoo, a 17-year-old midfielder, made his Manchester United debut on Tuesday night, prompting supporters to Google his name.
For the Carabao Cup quarterfinal at Old Trafford against Charlton, Mainoo was included in Erik ten Hag’s starting XI. Even though the teenager had been on the bench for United’s previous two games (against Newcastle and Wolves), this was his first appearance in a game this season.
Since Mainoo has shown promise in the past for United’s youth teams, Mirror Football has opted to profile him in an effort to determine whether or not he will become the newest star to come out of United’s illustrious academy. Everything you need to know is listed below…
Who is Kobbie Mainoo?
For United’s youth teams, the 17-year-old Mainoo is a midfielder to watch. The Stockport native played for Cheadle & Gatley’s youth team before being snatched up by the Red Devils when he was nine years old.
He has since made a strong impression and is rapidly rising through the ranks of the club’s junior academy. Mainoo is in his rookie season with United’s Under-21 team. In May of 2022, he signed his first contract at the professional level.
What has Kobbie Mainoo Achieved?
Mainoo seems to be the real deal, unlike many other young players who were predicted to make a big impact but ultimately fizzled out. He had a breakout game against Brighton’s U21s and then another against Carlisle United of League Two in the EFL Trophy.
Mainoo played a crucial role in United’s FA Youth Cup victory over Nottingham Forest in May of last year, and since then, he has been given regular opportunity to show his worth by working with the first team on a regular basis.
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What has been Said About Kobbie Mainoo?
Before Mainoo made his United debut, many people had high hopes for him. Commentator Jonny Crowther hailed the midfielder as “different class” after a preseason loss to non-league side Altrincham. The 17-year-old, meantime, has made his own statement.
His post read, in part: “Happy to sign my first professional deal with Manchester United – amazing way to cap a successful season.” United manager Ten Hag has also been very vocal about how he feels about Mainoo, suggesting that the young player’s benching in the Premier League match against Newcastle was no mere gesture and that he fully expects Mainoo to perform up to his standards.
What Position does Kobbie Mainoo Play?
The youngster is noted for his offensive prowess and creativity, and he typically plays in the central midfield position. Manager of Manchester United’s Under-21 team in Papa Johns Trophy games Travis Binnion has discussed his ability to play multiple positions in the midfield.
He has recently played as a 6, 8, and 10, and this versatility “shows the forming of a really smart football brain and an athletic capability to play throughout the pitch and play in different roles and systems,” he told The Athletic.
“Good things are happening for him. His close control, high awareness, and engaging body touch are his greatest assets. His skills in all arenas are top-notch, and he has a fiery disposition to boot. His many abilities complement one another rather well. He has been working out with the major league squad with great success.”
Why did Ten Hag Hand him Man Utd Debut Vs Charlton?
Since the return of domestic football after World Cup 2022 has resulted in a packed schedule, Ten Hag has decided to rotate his players for the match against Charlton. The Dutchman has given playing time to players like Tom Heaton, Harry Maguire, and Scott McTominay who were previously on the bench.
He has also injected plenty of youth into the team by starting Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Anthony Elanga. The decision to start Mainoo is a huge vote of confidence in the teenager from boss Ten Hag, who seems to have had him on his radar for some time.
The adolescent was on the Man United bench for their Premier League games against Newcastle in October and Wolves on New Year’s Eve, but he did not play in either game.
What has Ten Hag Said About Mainoo?
Before the game against Charlton began, Ten Hag addressed the media and explained his starting lineup, which includes Mainoo. “The opportunity is fantastic for him, as he excelled at the winter camp in Spain. Also, in a friendly match against Everton, he performed admirably.
I’m pleased to give him the chance to participate since he earned it “MUTV, he revealed. “We need him to be prepared, and I believe we have a formidable team here today. This is his first game back, but Licha has put in some solid practise time and should be OK. In any situation, you must be at the top of your game.”
Mainoo will get a great chance to show his coach what he’s got against weaker competition. Charlton may be 12th in League One, but they overcame Brighton in the League Cup the last time they were on the field.
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