Kobbie Mainoo makes Instagram post to celebrate new long term contract with Manchester United

Young Manchester United player Kobbie Mainoo has expressed his happiness after signing a new, long-term contract at Old Trafford.

The 17-year-old, who earned his club's senior debut in last month's 3-0 Carabao Cup quarterfinal victory over Charlton Athletic, is highly regarded within Old Trafford, which is why manager Erik ten Hag has already given him two chances to play for the first team this year. He made his professional debut against the League One Addicks and came off the bench in the second half of the 3-1 victory over Reading in the FA Cup's fourth round.

The midfielder from Stockport, who joined United at the age of nine, has advanced in the pecking order so quickly that he is now thought to be ahead of fellow youngster Zidane Iqbal. Iqbal, who shone in Thailand and Australia during United's preseason tour last summer, is yet to make a single game this season.

Mainoo's promotion to the first-team squad has happened incredibly quickly, especially considering how little time he spent last season playing for the Under-21s. The teenager has promised to keep working hard and is thrilled to have pledged his future to the Reds.

"Amazing few weeks for me and my family, really pleased to sign a long-term contract with this special club. Continuing to work hard and taking everything step by step," Mainoo posted on his Instagram page. 

Kobbie Mainoo is highly regarded by Reds manager Erik ten Hag, who had no reluctance in giving him his professional debut last month. Mainoo started all six games while helping United win the FA Youth Cup last season.

"For him it's a great opportunity, he did very well during the winter camp in Spain," said Ten Hag, speaking prior the win over Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup Quarter-finals. "He also did very well against Everton in a friendly. He deserved to play, so I'm happy to give him the opportunity.

Kobbie Mainoo has featured for Man United in cup games but have not made his Premier League debut yet. He was on bench for Manchester United during the Premier League game between Newcastle United.