Dan Ashworth to ‘accelerate’ Kobbie Mainoo plan after Man United return scheduled

Dan Ashworth is set to ‘accelerate’ his Kobbie Mainoo plan after the teenager’s Manchester United return has been scheduled.

The Reds have played four pre-season games so far this summer and will face Liverpool on Sunday before returning to England for the Community Shield next weekend.

Kobbie Mainoo is yet to return to training after being granted an extended break following his exploits at Euro 2024 with England.

The 19-year-old was one of Gareth Southgate’s best performers as the Three Lions reached the final of the competition. He is currently on holiday in Los Angeles.

Mainoo visited the United squad at their UCLA training base on Friday and is expected to return to Carrington for training early next week ahead of the trip to Wembley against Manchester City.

According to previous reports from Graeme Bailey of HITC, sporting director Dan Ashworth has prioritised extending Mainoo’s contract in the coming months, as his current deal runs until 2026.

The report also mentioned that the teenager wanted clarity on Erik ten Hag’s future before committing to a new contract.

It was confirmed earlier this summer that the Dutch manager will stay at the club, a development that reportedly delighted Mainoo and his representatives. The midfielder holds great respect for the manager who integrated him into the first-team squad.

Ashworth is expected to accelerate contract negotiations with the 19-year-old when he returns to Carrington next week, with the club eager to reward Mainoo with a new contract that reflects his progress and status as one of England’s top young players.

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