Kobbie Mainoo surprises three young Man Utd fans as he recalls favourite moment
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has picked his match-winning goal against Manchester City in last season's FA Cup final as his one of his best memories in a red shirt
by Dan Marsh · The MirrorKobbie Mainoo counts his goal in last season's FA Cup triumph as one of his finest moments in a Manchester United shirt yet.
The Red Devils academy graduate, 19, burst onto the scene last season, establishing himself as a vital cog in Erik ten Hag's midfield after recovering from an injury setback in the summer
Mainoo received plenty of plaudits for a string of classy displays in the United engine room to become the latest academy star to make it big in the senior ranks - but one moment stands above all others for the Stockport-born maestro.
The teenager was on target in May's stunning 2-1 win over Manchester City at Wembley and, in a conversation with several young competition winners, he confirmed that was the standout moment in his fledgling career to date.
When he was asked by a youngster about the favourite goal he'd scored, Mainoo, promoting Topps' Match Attax cards, said: "In the FA Cup final and we won a trophy as well."
Mainoo surprised three young United fans in collaboration with Match Attax - the beloved football trading card game by Topps - where he delivered priceless signed collectibles and unforgettable reactions. Popular content creator and presenter Billy Wingrove was also part of the surprise - and Mainoo was delighted to give fans a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
He added: "Meeting these young fans was an unbelievable moment, seeing their faces light up as we surprised them was really special. Growing up, I loved collecting Match Attax cards and trading with my friends at school, so being part of this alongside Billy was something really special. Seeing their raw passion for football and the excitement these cards bring reminds me of why I love the game."
Mainoo has enjoyed a rapid rise over the last 12 months: a back injury prevented him from featuring for Ten Hag's side until late November. He went on to feature 24 times in total in the Premier League, scoring three goals prior to his match-winning contribution in the FA Cup final.
In an interview with Mirror Football before the big match back in May, Mainoo explained how his progression into the Manchester United first-team had led to him being recognised more and more - something he's enjoyed.
He explained: “A lot more people know my name now. But at home with the family I have around me, they very much keep me grounded and nothing changes at home. When I try to go to the corner shop I get a bit more attention but, other than that, it's fine. I just take it in my stride.
“Obviously, people ask for pictures and whatnot. It’s nice. I mean, I grew up here, so to take pictures and stuff, is the least I can do. I remember being a kid myself and wanting pictures with players when I was younger.
“There were times when eyes weren't on me and all I wanted was for people to see me play football. I used to whisper it, to be playing at Old Trafford, under the lights, and now it's here I can't complain.
“It's good we have a busy schedule, we have a lot of games, so I'm not really focused on anything else other than football.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches 'lowest price' Premier League package
£43 (was £52)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £216 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
With Ultra HD included at no extra cost, football fans can enjoy the 2024/25 season with crystal clear picture quality.