KOBBIE MAINOO has been a rare bright spark for Manchester United this season – but he was nearly snatched away by rivals Manchester City.

The midfielder joined the Red Devils at the age of six and progressed through the academy at The Cliff.

Kobbie Mainoo picked United over City at a young ageCredit: Getty

He broke into the first-team this season and has made 20 appearances this season, scoring twice.

Mainoo, 18, has caught the eye with his impressive performances and there is even talk of Gareth Southgate calling up the youngster to the England squad.

But his career could have played out very differently if he had made a different choice as a youngster.

With Mainoo already training at United, he had the option to switch to City after having sessions at their academy base.

But after around a year playing at both clubs Mainoo picked United because of the freedom he was given in his football, according to The Athletic.

The club fostered a culture that allowed players to make mistakes on the ball – an environment that appealed to Mainoo.

Mainoo’s ability to play without fear has propelled him into the limelight this season with a number of pundits tipping the wonderkid to get an England call up.

Ian Wright pointed to his bravery under pressure as one of the reason why he deserves to be in the next Three Lions squad.

The youngster has impressed since breaking into the first-team

He said: “Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad.

“Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we’ve not seen from a England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him.”

Gary Lineker labelled Mainoo “remarkable” and claimed he could sneak into the Euro 2024 squad.