Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Thu 30 April 2026 18:30, UK

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Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has reacted on social media after Kobbie Mainoo signed a new contract with Manchester United.

The midfielder has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal, which will see him stay put at Old Trafford until 2031.

Mainoo had looked set to leave Man United under the management of Ruben Amorim, who often opted to leave him on the bench.

But under Michael Carrick, the 21-year-old has once again become heavily involved and is back in contention for the World Cup squad this summer.

The talent was injured as Leeds beat Man United 2-1 at Old Trafford earlier this month, courtesy of Noah Okafor’s double.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin likes Kobbie Mainoo post

Football Insider exclusively revealed in March that Man United were confident of securing Mainoo’s future, and that confidence has now been backed up.

The 21-year-old had been set to leave Old Trafford in 2027, but it always felt as if his priority was to stay with the Red Devils.

Mainoo emerged from the academy in the 2022-23 season and started playing regularly in the 2023-24 campaign, earning him a place in England’s 2024 European Championship squad.

The talent ultimately started the key knockout matches, which made it all the more surprising when his minutes started to fade after the arrival of Amorim.

There had even been talk of the England international leaving on loan in January, but Carrick’s arrival put an end to such talks.

Mainoo took to Instagram following Thursday’s news and shared several pictures of himself signing the deal this week with his family.

“Proud to sign for five more years, blessed to call this place home,” he wrote. Calvert-Lewin, who has played with Mainoo for England, liked the post.

Mainoo was just days away from Man United exit

Had Man United waited a few more weeks to sack Amorim, they may well have lost Mainoo completely.

The midfielder was heavily linked with moves to the likes of Napoli and West Ham, and while decision-makers were unwilling to sanction a permanent move, six months away may have been decisive.

Carrick’s ability to get hold of the situation and make sure the 21-year-old stayed put at Old Trafford will surely be considered in the decision that could see him become the permanent manager.

Mainoo’s development currently feels in good hands, and Man United would be unwise to throw that away.