Kobbie Mainoo is putting together a seriously impressive start to the 2026/27 season, and one statistic is now putting his importance to Manchester United into perspective. 👀🔥
According to statistics reported this week, Mainoo has won possession 40 times in the Premier League this season — more than any other player in the competition. Lewis Hall and Alex Scott were listed behind him.
That is a huge number for a 21-year-old midfielder who has increasingly been trusted to operate in a deeper role. 🧠⚽
Mainoo’s ability isn’t simply about making tackles. He has developed into a midfielder who can read situations, anticipate passes, recover the ball and then keep possession moving once United regain it.
And that combination is becoming increasingly important.
🔴 MAINOO IS DOING THE DIRTY WORK
Winning possession 40 times means Mainoo is repeatedly getting United back on the ball.
He has shown an ability to step into passing lanes, compete for loose balls and recover possession in midfield. FotMob’s current Premier League data also has Mainoo at 5.5 possessions won in midfield per 90 minutes for United this season.
But what makes his performances particularly interesting is what happens after he wins it.
Mainoo is not simply trying to smash the ball away.
He can receive under pressure, turn away from opponents and carry the ball forward. The Premier League previously highlighted his press resistance and ability to bring greater control to United’s midfield.
👀 FROM FRINGE PLAYER TO KEY MIDFIELDER
Mainoo’s situation has changed dramatically.
After struggling for regular minutes under Ruben Amorim, he became an increasingly important part of Michael Carrick’s midfield during the 2025/26 campaign.
The Premier League reported that during Carrick’s tenure, Mainoo led United for possession won with 59, while also ranking second for successful passes and tackles among United players during that period.
Now, early in the new campaign, the numbers are suggesting that his defensive contribution has taken another step forward.
🔥 40 possessions won
🔥 Highest figure in the Premier League
🔥 5.5 midfield possessions won per 90
🔥 Growing responsibility in the deeper midfield role
For a player who is still only 21, that development is significant.
🧱 MAINOO + BALEBA?
And this is where Manchester United fans have another reason to get excited. 👀
With Carlos Baleba now part of United’s midfield plans, Mainoo could potentially operate alongside a midfielder whose physicality and ball-winning ability complement his own strengths.
Mainoo can offer calmness, ball retention and intelligent positioning, while Baleba brings power, athleticism and aggressive ball carrying.
That could give United a midfield capable of winning possession and keeping it once they have recovered it. 🔴🔥
Mainoo’s numbers are already speaking loudly.
The kid isn’t just keeping possession anymore — he’s taking it back. 👑🔴
