Breaking: Pep Guardiola's genuine interest in the talented Kobbie Mainoo! | OneFootball

Manchester's marginalized boy may find himself on the blue side.

Getty Images

For weeks, the case of talented English teenager Kobbie Mainoo was one of the most talked-about issues in English sports. Ultimately, the 19-year-old player remained with Manchester United after the summer transfer window closed and did not leave the team.

Now, the player finds himself under the direct attention of one of the best coaches in the game, the Spaniard Pep Guardiola, who coaches the blue side of the city, Manchester City.

Previous rare transfers between the two teams

In a twist that has set the rumour mill ablaze, Manchester City’s master tactician Pep Guardiola is said to have set his sights on an unlikely target: Manchester United’s rising midfield star, Kobbie Mainoo.

As reported by TEAMtalk, Guardiola is not merely keeping tabs on the youngster—he is actively showing serious interest, a move that defies the deeply ingrained rivalry between the two Manchester clubs. Transfers across the city divide are famously uncommon, which makes Guardiola’s admiration all the more significant.

What makes the situation even more compelling is Mainoo’s staggering market valuation, believed to be in the region of £70 million. This comes despite the midfielder having only a handful of starts to his name this season, underscoring the immense potential top clubs like City see in him.

Guardiola’s open appreciation adds a fascinating layer to Mainoo’s rapid rise, turning what might have been just another transfer rumour into a headline-grabbing subplot in the Manchester football saga.