Opinion

Kobbie Mainoo has already said he loves two Arsenal players amid links to Mikel Arteta’s team

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Arsenal have been linked with a shock move for Kobbie Mainoo, with the England star having already expressed his admiration for Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.

Mainoo could be on the move during the January transfer window as his game time at Manchester United remains limited under Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils will be looking to make transfer moves of their own in the winter window, and the 20-year-old could be sold to make way for new signings.

Now, in a shock turn of events, Arsenal have been linked with Mainoo, and he could prove to be a popular signing amongst the Gunners’ squad.

Kobbie Mainoo laughs alongside Declan Rice of England.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images

Kobbie Mainoo is a big admirer of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice

Kobbie Mainoo is already well acquainted with Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, having featured alongside both with England.

In the past, the midfielder has spoken very highly of the pair and admitted that he is a big fan of both Arsenal players.

Mainoo has been partnered with Rice in England’s midfield for big games at Euro 2024, and it’s clear that the duo already have a great connection.

Back in June 2024, speaking about Rice, Mainoo told the media: “He’s such a good player, so reliable and dominant in midfield.

Declan Rice’s record playing alongside Kobbie Mainoo for England…

Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo of England celebrate after winning the UEFA EURO 2024 semi-final match.
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images

Let us know whether Mainoo would be a good additon for Arsenal…

“It’s always a joy to have someone so strong on the ball next to you, and you can always trust him on the pitch. He’s worth every penny, and he’s proved that.”

Meanwhile, the Manchester United ace has admitted that, despite also being young, Saka is one of the players he looks up to in the England squad.

During the same interview, when asked about whether Saka is seen as a leader in the England squad, Mainoo added: “Yeah, definitely, he’s had a lot of experience.

“He’s been playing for England since he was young, my age, so to have him around and speak to him, he’s a great guy. It’s a joy to be around him.”

It’s clear that Mainoo would be loved by most of the Arsenal squad and perhaps this could be an interesting addition for the Gunners.

Kobbie Mainoo would be an underrated signing for Arsenal

In fact, Mainoo would be an underrated signing for Arsenal, given that the North Londoners could do with another midfielder being added to the squad.

Currently, it appears as though Mikel Arteta doesn’t trust Christian Norgaard, which has resulted in Rice and Martin Zubimendi being overworked.

Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi in action for Arsenal
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Signing a player who could come into the team and help ease the burden on the midfield duo would be a much-welcomed addition at the Emirates Stadium.

Mainoo has demonstrated his quality for both United and England, but needs the right coach who can profile him in the right position. That man could be Arteta.