Wilcox issues statement after securing long-awaited deal for one of the most ‘naturally gifted’ players in world football

Mainoo U-turns on his future to stay in M16

Mainoo has only ever represented the Red Devils in his youth and senior career, and United – and the fans – are hoping it stays that way.

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His decision to stay put comes just a matter of months after he had requested that he be allowed to leave amid his torrid situation under Ruben Amorim.

🚨 BREAKING: Kobbie Mainoo makes clear to Man United that he wants to leave the club on loan this summer.

The decision has been made and it’s only for a LOAN move, not for permanent exit.

Kobbie wants to play regular football, he doesn’t want to leave #MUFC on permanent deal. pic.twitter.com/8lmadHKibC

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2025

When the manager was continuously omitting Mainoo from the team, he pushed to embark on a new venture in both the summer window and in the lead-up to the winter window, until Michael Carrick was appointed and swiftly put matters right.

Manager	Appearances (starts)	Unused	Minutes played
Amorim	11 (0)	4	212
Carrick	12 (12)	0	1,066

The 21-year-old has since started every fixture that he’s been available for, and, unsurprisingly, has been one of United’s best players on the pitch week in and week out.

Kobbie Mainoo brilliance 😮‍💨@ManUtd pic.twitter.com/ptQC8R864f

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 30, 2026

Why United had to act fast with Mainoo deal

United were keen to have everything set in stone regarding the midfielder’s contract before the World Cup, with it looking increasingly likely that Mainoo will be called up to Thomas Tuchel’s squad to represent England at his second major tournament.

Chelsea had already registered their interest in a move for Mainoo when he had fallen out of favour in Amorim’s reign, so who knows what other clubs could’ve begun sizing up potential pursuits if he excelled on the biggest international stage.

Reactions to Mainoo’s extension

Jason Wilcox and Kobbi Mainoo pose with a Man United shirt after the latter’s contract announcement — (Photo via Man United)

Reacting to his improved terms, the homegrown Red told club media: “United has always been my home; this special club means everything to my family.

“I have grown up seeing the impact that our club has on our city, and I relish the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.

“From The Cliff, to Littleton Road, to Carrington and ultimately Old Trafford, the journey so far has been incredible. I have the privilege of living my dream every single day, with the same relentless desire to succeed here as when I joined my first training session at the age of six.

“We can all feel the momentum building inside the club. I am determined to step up and play my role in helping Manchester United regularly fight for major trophies in the years ahead.”

Additionally, Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, said: “Kobbie is one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world. We have full confidence he will develop into one of the best players in the world, ready to play a pivotal role in MUFC challenging for the biggest honours.”