Why Kobbie Mainoo chose Man Utd over City after training with both rivals as a child

KOBBIE MAINOO has been a rare bright spot for Manchester United this season but was almost snatched away by rivals Manchester City.

The midfielder joined the Red Devils at the age of six and went through the youth academy of The Cliff.

He broke into the first team this season and made twenty appearances this season, scoring twice.

The 18-year-old Mainoo has caught the eye with his impressive performances and there is even talk of Gareth Southgate calling up the youngster to the England squad.

But his career could have been very different if he had made a different choice as a youngster.

As Mainoo was already training with United, he had the option of transferring to City after sessions at their academy base.

But after about a year at both clubs, Mainoo chose United because of the freedom he got in his football The Athletics.

The club fostered a culture where players could make mistakes on the ball – an environment that appealed to Mainoo.

Mainoo’s ability to play without fear has put him in the spotlight this season, with a number of pundits tipping the prodigy to get an England call-up.

Ian Wright pointed to his bravery under pressure as one of the reasons why he deserves to be part of the next Three Lions squad.

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He said: “Kobbie Mainoo should be in the next England squad.

“We haven’t seen such maturity in chaotic circumstances from an English player for a long time. Every time I look at him I am impressed.”

Gary Lineker labeled Mainoo “remarkable” and claimed he could sneak into the Euro 2024 squad.