Mainoo says conic Rooney strike was his earliest memory of a Manchester derby

Kobbie Mainoo has recalled his earliest memory of a Manchester derby when Wayne Rooney scored the iconic overhead kick for Manchester United.

Rooney produced his spectacular winner in the 2011 Manchester derby when Mainoo was a young child.

“I remember watching it on the TV in the front room,” Mainoo recalled.

It was a fitting introduction to the Manchester derby for a player who would eventually come through United’s Academy and experience the rivalry for himself.

Mainoo has been testing his skills against City since his days in the youth ranks, with the two clubs regularly among the strongest sides at academy level.

“It means a lot to me,” Mainoo told United Review.

“Coming up in the Academy, you play City twice a season and it’s always the biggest game.

“You know that being a fan, but where the coaches would big it up, it’s always been a big rivalry for us, and so yeah, I’m really excited.”

Two years ago, Mainoo created a derby memory of his own when he scored in United’s 2-1 FA Cup final victory over City at Wembley.

The midfielder was named Player of the Match after scoring United’s second goal against Pep Guardiola’s side.

“It was a great day,” Mainoo said. “Scoring in the derby any time is unbelievable, but in an FA Cup final, it’s just that much sweeter.

“And to go on and win, yeah, it’s a day I’ll never forget.”

Mainoo still has the bucket hat and scarves from the celebrations that followed, but he will now be hoping to add another special derby memory when United face City again.

United have enjoyed an excellent home record under Michael Carrick, with Leeds the only side to prevent them from winning at Old Trafford during his time in charge.

City were among the first victims, losing 2-0 at Old Trafford in January, a result Mainoo believes helped set the tone for what followed.

“It definitely got the ball rolling for us, and was a big booster in building momentum,” he said.

Mainoo has also relished working under Carrick, particularly given the manager’s experience as a midfielder and his long association with United.

“I’ve loved it,” he said. “So much help, especially him being such an experienced midfielder and winning so much with this club.

“Anything that he tells you or any instruction that he gives you is gold, really.”