EXCLUSIVE: Mainoo to replace Rashford as the face of Man Utd

Steve Kay

• Updated: 3 Aug 2024 08:06 CDT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

In a move to shape the future of Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is poised to make Kobbie Mainoo the new face of the Old Trafford outfit, FootballTransfers understands.

Plans are being put into place ahead of the 2024/25 season to increase Mainoo's presence in promotional material and to push him to the forefront of the club's public image.

The 19-year-old midfielder has shown immense promise with his impressive performances for Man Utd's senior team, also featuring for England at Euro 2024. Mainoo’s ability and maturity have earned him comparisons to some of the club's legendary players of recent eras.

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Following his goal against Man City in the FA Cup final, Red Devils legend Paul Scholes took to Instagram to heap praise on the youngster. "Read a few comparisons between me and this kid last week," he wrote.

"Don't waste your time, he is 10 times the player I was at 19. Just love the way he receives the ball, the calmness, the awareness of what's around him and of course big goals in big games. This boy is special."

Mainoo's rise to prominence and popularity has, of course, not gone unnoticed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the key figure in Man Utd's new ownership structure.

Mainoo supplants Rashford

The INEOS boss believes that Mainoo embodies the values and aspirations of the Manchester outfit and is convinced that making him the 'face of the club' will inspire a new generation of fans and players alike, while also boosting the club's public perception.

Fellow academy graduate Marcus Rashford has been the symbol of Man Utd for several years. However, recent off-field issues and a dip in form, which saw him come under fire last season, have led to the search for a new leading figure.

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Mainoo, with a maturity beyond his years and consistent performances, is seen as the ideal candidate to take on Rashford's mantle.

Sources have told us this process will involve significant public relations and marketing efforts, showcasing the youngster's journey with United and his rise within the England national team.

Fans can expect to see more of Mainoo in promotional materials, interviews and community events. His rise to prominence represents a new chapter for Man Utd, with a renewed focus on nurturing and celebrating young talent.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe hopes that his confidence in Mainoo will signify a bright future for the player and the club.