Kobbie Mainoo has debuted a fresh haircut on social media as he prepares for the 2024–25 season with Manchester United. The 19-year-old midfielder shared the new look just days after England’s heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
Mainoo was a standout for the Three Lions throughout the tournament, despite early criticism of the team’s performances. He initially started on the bench as Gareth Southgate tested different midfield options in the group stage. But after impressing as a substitute, Mainoo earned a starting spot in all four knockout matches.
His performances against Slovakia, Switzerland, and the Netherlands showcased his composure and skill, helping him secure a place in the final despite having just eight caps before the tournament. However, Mainoo found it harder to make an impact in the final match in Berlin. He was substituted in the second half for Cole Palmer, who briefly gave England hope with an equalizer before Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winner in the 86th minute.
This week, former Liverpool midfielder Graeme Souness offered a mixed review of Mainoo’s development. Speaking on the Up Front podcast, Souness praised the teenager’s technical ability but questioned his positional discipline.
“I think he’s really good on the ball, very talented,” Souness said. “But he doesn’t fully understand the position. He wanders and leaves the middle of the pitch too easily.”
Souness pointed to Mainoo’s performance against Iceland in a pre-Euro warm-up and his late substitute appearance against Serbia as examples of his inexperience.
Despite the criticism, Mainoo’s rapid rise at Manchester United and his performance at a major international tournament suggest a bright future. As the new club season approaches, fans will be watching closely—not just for his new look, but for how he continues to grow on the pitch.
