“I Missed Him”: Man United Wonder Kid Names Cristiano Ronaldo As Legend He Wants to Play With

• Kobbie Mainoo has opened up about his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo
• The Manchester United academy graduate has been a revelation this term
• He is expected to play a big role in United's titanic clash against Man City

Manchester United's rising talent, Kobbie Mainoo, has expressed his desire to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, naming the Portuguese superstar as the legend he admires.

Mainoo's ascent has been remarkable since his debut for the Red Devils, shining brightly in what has been a challenging season for Erik ten Hag's team.

Mainoo's meteoric rise at Man United

Hailing from Stockport, an industrial town in Greater Manchester, the young prodigy demonstrates remarkable maturity on the field, particularly in midfield, navigating through tough situations with ease. His Premier League debut goal exemplifies this.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s goals: 15 of the best CR7 goals and Cristiano Ronaldo assists last season

Football

Picking up the ball seemingly with no clear path forward, Mainoo manoeuvred past three defenders before delivering a stunning 97th-minute winner against Wolves, sealing a thrilling victory for Man United.

Far from resting on his achievements, the 18-year-old continues to progress and refine his skills.

Since his senior debut for United in January 2023, where he started in a 3-0 EFL Cup triumph over Charlton Athletic, Mainoo has made 17 appearances for the first team, contributing two goals and two assists, according to Transfermarkt.

Mainoo names Ronaldo as legend he admires

As he relishes his inaugural full season in senior football, the Man United academy graduate has expressed his admiration for Ronaldo.

Despite Ronaldo leaving the Old Trafford club under acrimonious circumstances, the Englishman dreams of sharing the pitch with the iconic figure, who currently plies his trade in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr.

“Maybe I would say Cristiano Ronaldo. I missed him when I joined the first team,” he said as quoted by CristianoXtra.

Casemiro's stats: How has the Brazilian midfielder transformed Manchester United since joining the team?

Football

England urged to hand Mainoo call-up

Sports Brief also reported that Ian Wright, the former Arsenal forward, has advocated for the inclusion of United's Mainoo in the upcoming England squad.

Mainoo's impressive performances have attracted the interest of Ghana, where he qualifies to play internationally based on his parents' heritage.

Although the 18-year-old has already featured for his birth country at youth levels, he has yet to decide on his senior international career.

With both England and Ghana vying to secure his commitment, Wright urges Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate to act swiftly to secure the talented midfielder's services.