Manchester United have been given a stark reminder of how close they came to a major transfer blunder involving academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. The 21-year-old midfielder, now a key figure in England's World Cup squad, was nearly lost to the club earlier this season due to a strained relationship with former head coach Ruben Amorim.
Mainoo's Rise and Setback
Mainoo burst onto the scene as a teenager during Euro 2024, starting all four knockout games for England. However, his progress stalled under Amorim, who rarely utilized the youngster's talents. As a result, Mainoo fell behind peers like Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson in the England pecking order. Wharton, who was behind Mainoo in the Euro 2024 squad, seemed to overtake him, while Anderson emerged as a regular starter alongside Declan Rice.
Carrick's Arrival Revives Career
United's decision to sack Amorim in January and appoint Michael Carrick proved pivotal. Within weeks, Mainoo went from considering a mid-season loan to Napoli to becoming an integral part of the United midfield. Having not started a Premier League game until mid-January, his form improved dramatically, earning him an England recall in March. By the end of the season, Mainoo was delivering all-action displays, showcasing improved defensive awareness and reading of the game.
World Cup Opportunity
Mainoo's resurgence saw him overtake Wharton for a place in England's 26-man World Cup squad. While Anderson and Rice have formed a strong partnership, Mainoo is poised to challenge for a starting role in the heat of North America. Newcastle full-back Tino Livramento praised Mainoo's two-touch skills on England's in-house media show, Lions' Den, saying, "He's so good at two-touch. He'd be passing it or flicking it with his ankle."
A Near Miss for United
Mainoo's departure seemed inevitable under Amorim, but the Portuguese coach's sacking saved the day. Now playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation alongside Casemiro, Mainoo has excelled. Next season, he may partner with Anderson at United if the club gets its way. For now, Mainoo's focus is on challenging Anderson for a place in Thomas Tuchel's strongest XI.
