KOBBIE MAINOO is an emerging star at Manchester United whose journey from youth academy prodigy to first-team standout is capturing widespread attention.
From his iconic goal celebrations to his crucial performances for both club and country, his story is one of exciting talent and unyielding determination.
Kobbie Mainoo is an English footballer who plays as a midfielder for Manchester United and the England national team.
Born on April 19, 2005, in Stockport, England, Kobbie is of Ghanaian descent.
He began his football journey with Cheadle & Gatley Junior Football Club before being scouted and joining Manchester United’s academy at the age of seven.
His rise to prominence came through Manchester United’s youth system, where his talent quickly shone.
In May 2022, he signed his first professional contract with the club.
He made his first-team debut in January 2023 during an EFL Cup match, followed by his Premier League debut in February 2023.
Despite suffering an injury during the 2023-24 pre-season, he made a strong comeback, scoring crucial goals and earning praise for his performances.
Kobbie has also made strides internationally.
After representing England at various youth levels, he made his senior debut in March 2024.
He was part of England’s squad for UEFA Euro 2024, where he played in several matches, including the final against Spain.
Kobbie’s iconic goal celebration, which he shared with teammates Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund, became memorable during a match against West Ham in February 2024.
After Alejandro scored, he jumped onto an advertising board, mimicking a celebration inspired by his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Although he had initially planned to perform the celebration alone, Kobbie and Rasmus spontaneously joined him on the board.
Kobbie said in a post-interview: “I always ask Garna before the game what’s the celebration gonna be if he scores.
“And he said he wasn’t gonna tell me.
“So he was like: ‘I’m not telling you, I’m not telling you.’ So I’m like: ‘Okay.’
“I saw him jump up on the advertising board when he scored and me and Rasmus just jumped up there with him.
“He wanted it for himself! But we jumped in there and it was a nice picture.
“All of us young guys, with Amad as well, we have a lot of fun together and we’ve definitely grown close this season.”
In April 2024, Kobbie celebrated a goal during Manchester United’s 3-3 draw against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
It involved him saluting the crowd and blowing kisses after scoring a goal.
This was his first-ever home goal for United, and the celebration reflected his excitement and joy in the moment.
However, after the match, Kobbie apologised for his celebration, admitting that he “got ahead of himself” due to the euphoria of scoring such an important goal in a high-stakes fixture.
He said: “Yeah, it felt good so I got ahead of myself. Sorry.
“An unbelievable feeling, my first professional goal at Old Trafford, and to do it in this fixture is also amazing.
“At the end of the day, we don’t walk away with the three points so I can’t be too happy.”
His goal celebrations are often accompanied by his Manchester United teammates.
Bruno Fernandes covers both ears with his hands, Rasmus Højlund pretends to play the guitar, and Marcus Rashford points at his head to mark their goals.
Kobbie Mainoo has scored a total of 5 goals for Manchester United across 36 appearances.
