Wayne Rooney has become one of the only Manchester United legends who has a respected opinion these days, and now he has sent a brilliant message to Kobbie Mainoo.
This week will see Kobbie Mainoo start his first World Cup campaign for England.
Mainoo is already pushing to be a starter, looking like the better partner for Declan Rice when compared to Elliot Anderson.
The 21-year-old has earned his place in the team with sensational 2026 performances following United’s change of manager to Michael Carrick.
Wayne Rooney has been really impressed with Mainoo, and now he’s sent him a message over in the USA in advance of England’s World Cup campaign.
If Elliot Anderson is £125m… What is Kobbie Mainoo’s market value right now?
Not that he's going anywhere…🔒
Wayne Rooney sends a message of praise to Kobbie Mainoo
Rooney has always been a big supporter of Mainoo, acting in a manner that club legends should.
In an interview with BBC Sport, the reporter shared a message from Rooney to Mainoo.
“Hi Kobbie, just a quick message to say good luck at the World Cup. Just be yourself and you’ll be a star there, mate. Also how you have handled everything this season has been a lesson to all young football players, a great example to young and old players.
“And finally, you might not see, but having two lads in the United academy, you should realise you are an inspiration to them and to the young lads there. Keep doing what you are doing, be yourself. Much love, Wazza.”
This will be an excellent moment for Mainoo, getting this support from his childhood hero ahead of his inaugural World Cup campaign.
Mainoo admitted to having Rooney on his United kit growing up and looking up to the club legend for his style.
Who is YOUR ‘one to watch’ pick for Man Utd next season?👀
Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro both say Patrick Dorgu, but who is yours?
Mainoo is Manchester United’s most important player for the academy
While still so young in his career, having missed 18 months due to injuries and Ruben Amorim’s inexplicable grudge.
But despite this, Mainoo is so incredibly important for United’s academy, because he is the living proof of the club’s undying commitment to using the academy and offering pathways.
Rooney said it, Kai Rooney is looking at the United first-team and seeing Mainoo, who is six years above him in the academy, and now a superstar running the midfield at Old Trafford.
JJ Gabriel will also see it, questioning whether to stay or not in the coming years, but he will be aware that his strongest path to the senior side is at United, not elsewhere.
United tying down Mainoo to a bumper long-term deal is so vital, and Rooney is right, he should know how important he is.
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