Manchester United’s starlet Kobbie Mainoo recently underwent a major physical transformation.

This season, manager Erik ten Hag has gradually added the 18-year-old academy product to the starting lineup.

Kobbie Mainoo has joined Manchester United’s first team this season.

Kobbie Mainoo has joined Manchester United’s first team this season.

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The teenage midfielder hasn’t been afraid to stick his foot in during his breakthrough season.

Mainoo, pictured here playing for the U18s in 2021, was once a small and ‘wiry’ player, according to a former coach.

Mainoo has demonstrated maturity and skill far beyond his years, prompting some Old Trafford fans to request that Ten Hag start him on a regular basis.

Following a strong performance, one United fan declared, “He’s going straight to the top.”

The teenager hasn’t looked out of place and appears to be up to the physical demands of his position.

17-year-old Kobbie Mainoo is an insane talent | HE PLAYS LIKE POGBA | SEASON SO FAR (22/23) – YouTube.

UtdActive on X: “I truly believe Kobbie Mainoo can make it at Manchester United. https://t.co/DwCDyoeHT0” / X

His strength is derived from rigorous exercise and a nutritious diet, which have completely eliminated his “wiry” appearance.

Many people have been taken aback by Mainoo’s changes over the years, including Cheadle and Steve Vare, FC Gately’s academy chief, who has known him since he was five.

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He told the Manchester Evening News: “I attended the Youth Cup final. He’s almost unrecognisable.

“Because he’s a big lad now, whereas he was only tiny at Cheadle and Gatley.

“I described him at the time as wiry, strong, and quick off the mark.

Kobbie Mainoo was a member of the Manchester United side that won the Youth FA Cup in May 2022.

“He was one of those who pushed the ball past a player, and his ability to spring forward was electrifying.

“He’s a tall lad now, and I thought he played an excellent game against Nottingham Forest in the Youth Cup final.”

“I sometimes wind up my kids by telling them I coached him, and they say, ‘only for a short period of time.'”

“Cheadle and Gatley obviously played a minor role in his development, and as with everything in grassroots, it’s just a foundation for the future.

“But everyone at Cheadle and Gatley are absolutely delighted for him and it’s great to see him doing so well.”

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Paul Scholes, a Red Devils legend, believes his recent performances merit a longer stint with the team.

After United’s 3-3 draw with Galatasaray, he said: “I believe Mainoo deserves a chance in the team.

“And after what we saw at Everton on Sunday, I believe it’s time to give him a chance.

“The back four require protection. This young lad senses danger more than anyone else.

“On Sunday, in a hostile environment, he looked like the real deal. I don’t think anyone else can protect the back four as well as he can.”

Kobbie Mainoo was one of United’s top performers against Everton this month.

Mainoo, 18, has demonstrated great strength in the centre of the park when called upon.