Kobbie Mainoo: Big update emerges on United midfielder’s future | OneFootball

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has already experienced the many highs and lows of football in his nascent career. The Englishman famously scored in the 2-1 win over Manchester City in the 2023/24 FA Cup final, convincing fans that he would be the focal point of the Red Devils’ next great team.

Mainoo rose through the ranks at the Theatre of Dreams before breaking into the first team under former manager Erik ten Hag. Such was the young midfielder’s impact that he started England’s Euro 2024 final against Spain, which, unfortunately, the Three Lions lost 2-1.

However, Mainoo’s fortunes took a drastic turn following Ten Hag’s dismissal and the arrival of Ruben Amorim in November 2024. The 20 year old was in and out of the starting XI under the Portuguese head coach last season, and his situation went from bad to worse this campaign.

The Englishman failed to convince Amorim, and was reduced to a bit-part role, prompting talk of a possible departure in the winter transfer window. However, the Portuguese’s abrupt departure added a welcome twist to his situation.

Back in the fore in 2026

United opted to part ways with Amorim at the beginning of the year and appointed Michael Carrick as caretaker manager for the rest of the season. The Englishman immediately brought Mainoo back into the picture, including him in the starting XI against Manchester City.

The youngster responded by running the show against Pep Guardiola’s team and helping the Red Devils pick up all three points. Mainoo has subsequently retained his place in the team, building a stellar partnership with Casemiro and playing key roles in the wins against Arsenal and Fulham.

Kobbie Mainoo: All-Time Premier League Stats

Source: Premier League Website.

However, with the Englishman’s contract due to expire at the end of next season, his future remains shrouded in doubt. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils are planning to tie him down to a new deal, and an update on his contract situation has now emerged.

United prioritising Mainoo renewal

According to TEAMtalk, Mainoo’s renewal is now a priority for United, with director of football Jason Wilcox directly involved in the matter. The report states: “Manchester United have moved to accelerate contract talks with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, with discussions pencilled in for this month, TEAMtalk understands.”

“Sources indicate that Man Utd director of football, Jason Wilcox, has already made contact with Mainoo’s camp, offering reassurances over the club’s long-term vision for the academy graduate.”

“Wilcox is understood to have made it clear that the decision not to entertain offers for Mainoo was his, even during a period when the youngster found himself out of favour under former head coach Ruben Amorim.”

The report adds that the Red Devils are ready to offer Mainoo an improved contract that highlights his importance to the team and are confident of getting a deal across the line soon.

“The expectation is that Mainoo will be rewarded with a significantly improved contract that reflects both his current impact and his projected importance to the team. Man Utd see this as a priority piece of business – and all indications suggest it could move quickly.”

Final Thoughts

With Casemiro set to leave this summer and Bruno Fernandes due to turn 32 in September, Mainoo could be key to United’s succession plans in midfield. Even if the Red Devils invest heavily in the position at the end of the season, the club’s ability to hold on to the Englishman could have a massive impact on their pursuit of lost glory.

Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images

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