Kobbie Mainoo has signed a new five-year contract with Manchester United.
The club announced the midfielder’s new deal on Thursday, giving them a boost before Sunday’s clash with Liverpool.
And it caps the turnaround in Mainoo’s fortunes after he was considering leaving on loan when he was marginalised by former head coach Ruben Amorim.
But the Mancunian has become a pivotal player under Michael Carrick, forming a fine partnership with Casemiro and all but ensuring United will qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Amorim did not give Mainoo a Premier League start this season but he has begun 12 games under Carrick, with United taking 29 points from them.
Mainoo had little over a year left on his current deal while his new contract, which keeps him at Old Trafford until 2031, is set to contain a pay rise.
The England international, who made his debut in 2023, has made 98 appearances for United, scoring seven goals.
But he wanted to go out on loan last summer, when Napoli were interested, and could have sought a January move until Amorim was sacked.
Of his new deal, Mainoo said: “Manchester United has always been my home. This special club means everything to my family.
“I have grown up seeing the impact that our club has on our city, and I relish the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.
“From The Cliff, to Littleton Road, to Carrington and ultimately Old Trafford, the journey so far has been incredible. I have the privilege of living my dream every single day, with the same relentless desire to succeed here as when I joined my first training session at the age of six.
“We can all feel the momentum building inside the club. I am determined to step up and play my role in helping Manchester United to regularly fight for major trophies in the years ahead.”
Manchester United’s Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, added: “Kobbie is one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world.
“We are delighted that Kobbie has extended his stay here and have full confidence that he will develop into one of the best players in the world, ready to play a pivotal role in a Manchester United team challenging for the biggest honours.”
Mainoo’s contract helps United in their forward planning as they are likely to require at least two midfielders in the summer, with Casemiro going at the end of the season.
Mainoo will follow Harry Maguire in signing a new deal as United’s plans for next season continue to take shape.