Manchester United’s young talent, Kobbie Mainoo, has encountered a significant blow as he is set to miss the early stages of the 2023-24 season due to an ankle injury.
The 18-year-old midfielder suffered the injury during a pre-season match against Real Madrid, just three minutes into the friendly clash with Rodrygo.
Following the unfortunate incident, Mainoo was spotted on crutches and wearing a protective boot, indicating the severity of his injury.
The young talent had been making an impressive impact during pre-season, catching the attention of manager Erik ten Hag, who had plans to integrate him into the first team at Old Trafford.
A statement from Manchester United confirmed the extent of Mainoo’s injury, stating that he is “expected to be ruled out for the first part of the 2023-24 season.”
The club further mentioned that the player has returned to the UK from the tour, where additional assessments and medical decisions regarding his recovery will be made.
In response to the devastating news, Mainoo took to Instagram to express his determination to bounce back stronger, thanking his 386,000 followers for their messages of support.
The young midfielder is an England youth international and has already made three competitive first-team appearances for the club since joining their academy at the age of nine.
With Mainoo sidelined, manager Erik ten Hag now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement in the transfer market.
The club had already identified Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina and Morocco as a priority target. It is reported that Manchester United has submitted a £21.5 million bid for the 26-year-old, who impressed during the 2022 World Cup. However, Fiorentina is holding out for around £26 million for their star player.
Apart from Amrabat, Manchester United is also looking to secure a deal for Atalanta’s Danish striker, Rasmus Hojlund. While the Serie A side values Hojlund at £86 million, the Red Devils have offered £51 million and are reluctant to exceed £60 million during negotiations.
Additionally, transfer talks are swirling around other players at Old Trafford. Brazilian midfielder Fred is reportedly on the verge of agreeing to personal terms with Galatasaray, and West Ham’s £20 million opening bid for Harry Maguire has been rejected.