Not Amrabat – Manchester United are set to welcome a brand new player into their squad

Despite making three appearances last season, he wasn’t a consistent part of the first-team setup. However, Erik Ten Hag’s utilization of the young talent during the preseason hints at a potential breakthrough when he returns from his injury.

The frosty evenings at Leigh Sports Village were often warmed by the presence of Kobbie Mainoo last season. United’s academy matches took place there, and Mainoo’s development was nothing short of impressive. He played a pivotal role in the FA Youth Cup victory in 2021/22 and seamlessly transitioned to competing in the Premier League 2.

Mainoo’s exceptional performances in the academy earned him a debut in the League Cup against Charlton, followed by a Premier League debut a few weeks later. It was clear that he was destined to shine in preseason.

“It’s an incredible feeling. I’ve been with this club all my life, and it has led to tonight,” said Mainoo after his January debut. “Having my family here, surrounding me, it’s just amazing. All my immediate family were here. I think inviting anyone else would have been too much! They were all here, supporting me, and I waved to them after the game. The team sheet was posted, and I was starting, so it was a bit of a surprise, but I thought, I’ve got to do a job.”

While there were a few butterflies, it was mostly excitement. I played at Old Trafford in the Youth Cup final, and I remember that feeling. It was amazing, and to experience it again was brilliant.”

Mainoo is described as a likable, hard-working, and polite young player. What some may not know is that less than 24 hours after making his first-team debut, he was in Staffordshire to support his Under-18 teammates against Stoke. His commitment and mentality have left a strong impression on those close to him.

His absence from Premier League matchday squads at the end of the previous season was due to a minor injury. It was evident that he was seen as part of the first-team, as Erik ten Hag started him in every meaningful preseason friendly, including matches against Leeds, Lyon, Arsenal, and Real Madrid.

Prior to the preseason tour of the United States, it was revealed that Mainoo was not going out on loan and would have a first-team role in the new campaign, as reflected by his starting appearances in the USA.

The question was whether Mainoo could perform against high-quality opposition across the Atlantic, and he answered that question with resounding success. He displayed skill and composure against teams like Arsenal and held his own against the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Kai Havertz.

His start against Real Madrid, alongside Casemiro and Mason Mount in midfield, was particularly significant. Mainoo found himself pitted against the likes of Luka Modric, Jude Bellingham, and Aurelien Tchouameni, leaving no room for hiding.

Social media humorously referred to him as ‘England’s best midfielder and Bellingham’ in a picture alongside the former Borussia Dortmund star. Unfortunately, Mainoo’s impressive start was cut short after a collision with Casemiro, resulting in an ankle injury. While it was a setback, there’s optimism about his resilience and return to the pitch.

Mainoo’s recent social media activity suggests that his comeback is on the horizon. It will be eagerly anticipated to see him back in action and whether he can make a significant impact on the first-team.

In a recent press conference, Ten Hag mentioned Mainoo, expressing his belief that he’s ready to take on a crucial role. While he’s not currently available, Ten Hag hinted at Mainoo’s potential contributions in the upcoming winter season.