Manchester United fans found themselves Googling Kobbie Mainoo's name after the 17-year-old midfielder was handed his debut on Tuesday night.
Mainoo was named in Erik ten Hag's starting XI for the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Charlton at Old Trafford. It was the first time the teenager has been called on by the United boss after making the bench against Newcastle and Wolves earlier this season.
Mainoo has previously sparkled for United's youth ranks, so Mirror Football has decided to take a closer look at the youngster to see if he could become the latest talent to emerge from the club's famous academy. Here is everything you need to know...
Who is Kobbie Mainoo?
Mainoo is a 17-year-old midfielder currently making waves within United's academy sides. The youngster - born in Stockport - originally played for Cheadle & Gatley's juniors before being picked up by the Red Devils at the age of nine.
He has gone on to make an impression across the board and has steadily progressed through the club’s youth system. Mainoo is currently playing for United's U21 side - his first season at that level. He was rewarded with his first professional contract in May 2022.
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What has Kobbie Mainoo achieved?
While many young players have been touted for great things early in their careers only to fade later on, Mainoo certainly looks like the real deal.
He sparkled against Brighton's U21s earlier this season before turning in an equally impressive display against League Two outfit Carlisle United in the EFL Trophy.
Mainoo was also a key part of the side that won the FA Youth Cup against Nottingham Forest last May and has since been handed regular opportunities to impress by training alongside the United first team.
What has been said about Kobbie Mainoo?
Plenty was said about Mainoo ahead of his United debut. After a friendly defeat to non-league side Altrincham in pre-season, commentator Jonny Crowther touted the midfielder as "different class".
Meanwhile, the 17-year-old himself has already spoken. Taking to social media, he said: "Happy to sign my first professional contract with Manchester United - great way to end a successful season."
United boss Ten Hag has also been strong in his opinion of Mainoo having suggested that his place on the bench against Newcastle in their Premier League clash was not a token gesture, but that he expects the youngster to match his high standards.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the Dutchman said: "It's not experience it's about, they [young players] have to deliver. You are here to contribute to the team, to the team's success, and that is why is here."
Explaining his decision to play Mainoo against Charlton, Ten Hag told MUTV: "The most important thing is to win this game and get into the next round. We want to get into the semi-finals, so it's a big game.
"For him [Mainoo] it's a great opportunity, he did very well during the winter camp in Spain. He also did very well against Everton in a friendly. He deserved to play, so I'm happy to give him the opportunity - it's about deserving it. He has to [be ready]."
