Kobbie Mainoo: Man United’s prodigy destined for the top

The Premier League has a knack for unearthing special talents. Manchester United played at the Goodison over the weekend eastwards from their stadium, Old Trafford and despite Alejandro Garnacho’s sensational scissor kick, young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo was the club’s shining light in midfield. While many young players have been touted for great things early in their careers only to fade away later, Mainoo certainly looked like the real deal.

Mainoo is a midfielder who made waves within United’s academy sides. The youngster – born in Stockport to Ghanaian parents- originally played for Cheadle & Gatley’s juniors before being picked up by the Red Devils at the age of nine. He has gone on to make an impression across the board and has steadily climbed up through the club’s youth system. Mainoo played for United’s U23 team last season, forming a key part of the side that won the FA Youth Cup against Nottingham Forest in May 2022. He was soon handed regular opportunities to impress by training alongside United’s first team and eventually with his first professional contract in May 2022.

Erik ten Hag insisted he would give Mainoo a chance in the team during pre-season, but the midfielder picked up an ankle injury while playing against Real Madrid in July. Earning what was his first start in the premier league, the teenager played with a mature head over his shoulders in Manchester United’s win over Everton and although Alenjandro Garnacho’s performance coupled with a replica of Wayne Rooney’s overhead kick stole the show, Kobbie Mainoo’s was nothing short of brilliant. 18-year-old Mainoo showed composure in midfield and helped Manchester United keep a clean sheet when he cleared Dwight McNeil’s attempt over the line.

Kobbie Mainoo traces his roots back to Ghana and although he’s made appearances for the U-17 and U-20 England teams, he is still eligible to play for Ghana. Gareth Southgate already has his sights set on the youngster and hopes he can persuade him to pledging his future to the Three Lions.  The engine room of England boasts a catalogue of superstars and competition for place in the first eleven is at a record high. Declan Rice is virtually indispensable; Conor Gallagher is starting to find his feet at Chelsea, Kalvin Phillips is an option and John Stones can also tuck into midfield when needed.

On the other side of the spectrum lies the opportunity for him to represent the Black Stars. However, should he decide to play for Ghana, he would join a list of players including, Inaki Williams and Tariq Lamptey who switched nationalities to play for their country of origin. Ghana’s midfield could do with some fresh blood. Ashimeru and Salisu and potentially, Mainoo could form a new trio in midfield. The question of whether to play for Ghana or England will surely linger at the back of the midfielder’s mind and oh, his best days are yet to come.

By Emmanuel Andam | 3Sports