NEWS UPDATE: Wolves 3-4 Manchester United: Kobbie Mainoo extends his ascent to stardom by scoring decisive dream goal.

His inaugural Premier League goal, a 97th-minute winner securing a 4-3 triumph for his cherished childhood club, left 18-year-old Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo beaming with joy. Speaking to TNT Sports after his pivotal contribution in a thrilling match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux, Mainoo expressed, “It is a dream come true. I still feel like I am dreaming, to be honest. Now it’s about trying to win more games for my boyhood club in the Premier League.”

This marked Mainoo’s 11th senior appearance for United, and despite his prior understated brilliance in central midfield, this moment stood out as extraordinary. After Pedro Neto leveled the score for the hosts, Mainoo seized the ball 35 yards from goal, displaying individual brilliance by overcoming defenders, including a nutmeg on Wolves’ captain Max Kilman, and delivering a sublime finish past Jose Sa.

Mainoo joins the ranks of teenage sensations emerging from the United academy, with his late-game heroics echoing the likes of Federico Macheda in 2009, Marcus Rashford in 2016, and Alejandro Garnacho in 2022. His versatility, previously known for his role as a deep-lying central midfielder, surprised some United fans but not those who followed his career from a young age.

Originating from local side Cheadle and Gatley JFC in Greater Manchester at the age of five, Mainoo’s early promise was evident to coach Steve Vare, who recognized his unique talent. Vare recalls challenging Mainoo even at a young age and observing his quick acceleration, strength, and ball control. Recognizing Mainoo’s potential, Vare encouraged his entry into a professional academy, ultimately leading to his journey with Manchester United.

Mainoo’s impact has inspired current players at Cheadle and Gatley, with Vare noting, “It gives everyone a boost that they could be the next Kobbie Mainoo.” In the footsteps of predecessors like Rashford, Mainoo embodies the success of an academy player breaking into the first team.

While it may raise concerns that United relied on a teenager to salvage a game they led comfortably, Mainoo’s emergence as a midfield talent signals a promising future. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand praised Mainoo’s composure and likened his playing style to that of Clarence Seedorf, acknowledging his ability to navigate tight situations with ease.

For Mainoo, the dream has just begun, and his remarkable journey from the academy to the first team signifies a bright future ahead.