Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a move to Arsenal after the Manchester United midfielder reportedly expressed his desire to leave Old Trafford
Former Arsenal midfielder Stefan Schwarz has explained why he thinks a move to North London would be a good opportunity for Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo enjoyed a breakthrough season for United during the 2023/24 campaign, having progressed through the academy ranks at Old Trafford to become a first-team regular.
Despite such a promising beginning to his footballing career, the 20-year-old reportedly indicated his intention to leave Old Trafford over the summer.
United head coach Ruben Amorim has opted for a midfield duo this season, with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes more often than not steering the side. This has resulted in Mainoo accumulating just 138 minutes on the pitch so far this season.
Chelsea were reportedly interested in the young midfielder over the summer, though Arsenal have subsequently surfaced as a possible future destination. Schwarz believes it could prove a worthwhile switch for Mainoo.
“Kobbie Mainoo’s links to Arsenal? Arsenal have the best conditions for young players," said Schwarz in an interview with Hajper. "And they have a manager in Mikel Arteta that is not afraid to give responsibility to them and give them opportunities when he feels they are ready.
“It's just about preparing them in the best way and that's what Arsenal have done very well the last couple of years.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has often been praised for his ability to nurture young talent from the academy to the first team. Bukayo Saka has blossomed into a star player under Arteta's guidance, with the Gunners boss honing the England international's wing play and making him the focal point of the attack.
Ethan Nwaneri, at just 18 years old, has become an important squad rotation player for Arteta. Although he's not yet a regular starter, the faith shown in Nwaneri by the Arsenal boss paid dividends last season when the youngster netted nine goals and provided two assists in his breakthrough year.
Max Dowman, aged only 15, made history as the youngest player ever to feature in a Champions League match when Arteta introduced him during the club's 3-0 triumph over Slavia Prague.
One of Mainoo's standout attributes is his composed and mature presence in midfield. However, it seems that the young player has lost much of the responsibility that was once entrusted to him by Erik ten Hag.
Amorim appears to favour a more experienced pairing with seasoned players Casemiro and Fernandes. However, should Mainoo make the switch to Arsenal this winter, it's possible that Arteta could restore that level of responsibility to the 20-year-old.
Mainoo's impressive performances at United earned him a place in Gareth Southgate's England squad. Once again, the England boss showed enough trust in Mainoo to start him in the 2024 Euros final against Spain.
Mainoo's contract with United runs until 2027. The midfielder is reportedly open to a loan move this season and has currently put any new contract discussions on hold.