Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a move to Arsenal after expressing his desire to leave Manchester United over the summer.
Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a transfer away from Manchester United(Image: Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Former Arsenal midfielder Stefan Schwarz reckons the Emirates would prove an ideal destination for Kobbie Mainoo should the England international opt to depart Manchester United. Mainoo emerged as a breakthrough star for United throughout the 2023/24 campaign. Having progressed through the academy ranks, the Reds appeared to have nurtured another triumphant homegrown prospect.
Despite such an encouraging beginning to his professional journey, the 20-year-old indicated his wish to exit Old Trafford during the summer window, with his squad status remaining uncertain.
United boss Ruben Amorim has preferred a two-man midfield setup this term, with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes steering the side. This has resulted in Mainoo accumulating just 138 minutes of action in the current season.
Chelsea were reportedly interested in the promising midfielder during the summer transfer window, though Arsenal have subsequently surfaced as a prospective future destination. Schwarz reckons such a switch could prove advantageous for Mainoo.
He told Hajper: “Kobbie Mainoo’s links to Arsenal? Arsenal have the best conditions for young players. And they have a manager in Mikel Arteta that is not afraid to give responsibility to them and give them opportunities when he feels they are ready. It’s just about preparing them in the best way and that’s what Arsenal have done very well the last couple of years.”
Mainoo’s sole start came in the Carabao Cup this season (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Arteta is often lauded for his knack of promoting young academy players to the first team. Under Arteta’s guidance, Bukayo Saka has blossomed into a star player for the Gunners, with the Spanish manager honing Saka’s wing role and structuring the attack around him.
One of Mainoo’s standout attributes is his composed and mature presence in midfield. Regrettably, it seems the youngster has lost much of the responsibility once bestowed upon him by Erik ten Hag.
Amorim appears to favour a ‘safer’ pairing with seasoned players Casemiro and Fernandes. However, should Mainoo transfer to Arsenal this winter, it’s likely that Arteta would restore that level of responsibility to the 20-year-old.
His performances at United secured him a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad. The England manager showed enough faith in Mainoo to start him in the 2024 Euros final against Spain.
Mainoo’s contract with United runs until 2027. The midfielder is reportedly open to a loan move this season and has currently put new contract discussions on hold.
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