Despite three new signings, Mainoo remains the key man

An unexpected but revealing piece of clarity has emerged in Manchester United's midfield rebuild. According to Ben Jacobs, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to be the mainstay starting midfielder next season and he'll be paired with one of the new signings.

This statement also carries mathematical implications. Speaking on TheUnitedStand, Jacobs said the indispensable player next season won't be one of the new signings but Mainoo; given that Michael Carrick uses only a two-man midfield with Bruno Fernandes fixed in the number 10 role, this means only one of the club's three new midfield signings (Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and potentially Manu Kone) will start alongside Mainoo when he's fit.

This development also represents a formal endorsement of the club's trust in its academy product. It is recalled that Mainoo, who broke through under Erik ten Hag and was named man of the match in the 2024 FA Cup final, was reinstated in midfield by Carrick following Darren Fletcher's caretaker spell, where he formed a strong partnership with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes; the player, who hit exceptional form in 2026 and dominated midfield in big matches, is noted for his winning goal against Liverpool.

Manchester United have also cemented this commitment through his contract. The club has tied Mainoo down on a new deal running until June 2031; Football Director Jason Wilcox described the player as "one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world," noting that his technical ability, professionalism and humble character make him an excellent role model within the squad.

Source: Ben Jacobs
Image: BeSoccer