Kobbie Mainoo returns to Man United training ahead of Chelsea clash
· Yahoo Sports
Kobbie Mainoo is said to have returned to Manchester United training after a four-match absence, putting the midfielder in contention for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea.
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Mainoo’s injury timeline
Mainoo completed United’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on 10 October but sustained an issue during the match. The injury then ruled him out of the Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid three days later.
Head coach Michael Carrick was unsure whether the midfielder would recover for the meeting with Leeds United, which Mainoo subsequently missed. Carrick then estimated on 20 October that the academy graduate could require another 10 days (via RotoWire).
Mainoo remained unavailable for the matches against Como and Bournemouth.
Wednesday return gives Carrick a Chelsea selection option
Mainoo’s return was confirmed in an update which stated: “The midfielder took part in Wednesday morning’s session at Carrington after missing United’s last four matches through injury” (via Sam C).
Mainoo’s reaction to the session is likely to influence whether he starts, makes the bench or is held back at Stamford Bridge.
The timing could prove useful for Carrick, who will remain in charge against Chelsea despite United sitting 16th in the Premier League. His side have won only twice in 12 matches across all competitions this season.
Carrick began the campaign with Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos as his central pairing before Mainoo replaced Santos. Carlos Baleba has also recently returned to full fitness following an ankle injury, giving the coach more scope to adjust a midfield which has struggled to provide enough creativity and drive.
From United’s academy to an FA Cup final goal
Mainoo played for Cheadle & Gatley before joining Manchester United’s academy in 2014 at the age of nine. No transfer fee was involved.
He made his senior debut against Charlton Athletic in the League Cup on 10 January 2023. Before his latest injury absence, he had accumulated 110 competitive appearances for the Red Devils and scored eight goals.
The midfielder won the FA Youth Cup in 2022 and lifted the senior FA Cup two years later. Mainoo scored United’s second goal in the 2-1 final victory over Manchester City at Wembley.
He has never left the club on loan and committed his long-term future to United in April 2026 by signing a contract running until June 2031.
Provided Mainoo suffers no reaction in training, a place on the bench against Chelsea appears the most likely cautious route back into Carrick’s side.
Final Thoughts
- Mainoo returned to team training on Wednesday after missing four matches.
- The midfielder is now in contention for Saturday’s visit to Chelsea.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images