- Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo is in contract talks with club
- Paul Pogba spoke about midfielder’s future at Old Trafford
- Frenchman was unsure of 20 year-old’s future with Reds
For a long time, Kobbie Mainoo grew up with the title of being the ‘new Paul Pogba’ as he came through the Manchester United academy.
Although those claims may not entirely be accurate due to their differing playing styles, according to former Red Louis Saha. Nevertheless, to this day, the 21-year-old is arguably in the same elite bracket of academy graduates from the last fifteen years as Marcus Rashford and Pogba.
For the first time, the Monaco midfielder has spoken publicly about his ‘successor’ in a candid sit-down that touches on the uncertain future and development of Mainoo.
‘Talented’ Mainoo Has ‘Difficult’ Decision on Future
Speaking on the latest episode of ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents‘, Pogba was the latest guest on the former defender’s YouTube channel.
The Frenchman played 233 times for United, scoring 39 goals and providing 51 assists before rejoining Juventus.
There were many interesting topics for discussion, given the 33-year-old’s storied history across two spells at Old Trafford. However, one of the hottest conversations around Manchester United right now is the future of Kobbie Mainoo.
Pogba was glowing in his assessment, but honest about the pressures Mainoo faces as he enters contract renewal talks with United. He said: “He [Mainoo]’s such a talented kid. He’s still young. It’s really difficult. It’s all about how he feels. He’s going to have all the clubs after him, this is for sure.”
Mainoo was close to leaving Old Trafford in January under Ruben Amorim. The Englishman was frustrated by a lack of minutes and fearing for his 2026 World Cup aspirations. Mainoo personally requested a loan move, with Serie A champions Napoli in hot pursuit. However, the move was ultimately blocked due to a lack of senior midfield depth.
Fortunately for the 21 year-old, Michael Carrick was shortly appointed as interim boss. He has featured in all but one game under Carrick, regaining his confidence and showcasing the ability which Amorim failed to see.
Despite Mainoo’s current form under Carrick, Pogba, who famously left United twice, offered an uncomfortable solution for Mainoo. He added: “Maybe it’s not the right decision [to sign a new contract with Man Utd]. And it’s really hard for me to say he should leave when he’s loved by the people at United.
He’s such a great player, big potential, and he can have a great career at Manchester United also. So, I don’t know, but I just wish him the best. I don’t know what decision he’s going to make. “I just want to see this kid play because it’s enjoyable to see him play football.”
Alarms Bells for United Fans
Paul Pogba is a man who loved it, lived it and left it – twice. When he initially left Manchester, he was a boy who returned as a man years later for a world record fee.
This is a man who has seen it all from a Manchester United perspective. As United fans wait for the official confirmation of Mainoo’s contract, there is still time for him to re-think his long-term future.
If a former player who developed at the club has uncertainty around Mainoo’s development, it is a worrying sign for INEOS to address. Especially with the likes of JJ Gabriel and others coming through the academy right now, United cannot afford to let the pathway to success for young prodigies to be away from Old Trafford.
