Man Utd star hailed for incredible gesture as fan reveals dad passed away after watching Wolves game

Kobbie Mainoo is getting plenty of plaudits for his performances on the field. And now Manchester United’s rising midfield star is being hailed for a touching gesture off it.

The 18-year-old’s meteoric rise at Old Trafford continued at the start of the month with a fine last-minute winner in the dramatic 4-3 victory at Wolves. It was a match that held special significance for one United-supporting family. 

Supporter Daniel Killeen posted on X, formerly Twitter, that his father had died of cancer, and that the last game they watched together was the Wolves win. He pleaded with fans to try and help get his message to Mainoo and the post quickly went viral. 

The post read: "Really keen to try and get someone at Man Utd to get this message to Kobbie, so any shares or retweets would be much appreciated. Sadly my father lost his brave battle against cancer yesterday.

"The last game we watched together was the Wolves game, just the two of us in his hospital room. When Wolves equalised we were both so frustrated. I have never willed United to score more than that moment and then Kobbie Mainoo steps up with an amazing winner.

"Seeing Dad's arm in the air, a smile on his face and declaring 'that’s why you watch United'. When he saw that you were doing an interview, he insisted that I stay so he could listen. I know football should be about winning trophies, but you will never score a more important goal for our family Kobbie.

"You are already a hero in our household and you are now my 7-year-old's favourite player. Thank you for a truly brilliant and special moment. I am sure your career will bring many of them."

It didn’t take long for Mainoo to reply with a classy gesture, inviting Daniel and his son to a game at Old Trafford while sending his condolences after the passing of his father. 

The Stockport youngster said in a video post: "I saw your message on Twitter and was really touched by your story. I'm really sorry about the passing of your father and I'm glad you could share such a special moment together and I could play a small part in that. I wanted to invite you and your son to a game soon so we'll get in touch and get everything sorted. Stay strong and I'll see you soon."

Supporters were quick to praise the teenager and Daniel replied: "To everyone at Manchester United and to Kobbie. Thank you so much for responding to our message. It genuinely means so much to us during such a really difficult time for us as a family. That goal and my Dad's reaction to it will forever stay with me and I know the fact that it was such a significant goal from such a young and talented player with an amazing future made it even more special for him.

"Just taking the time to send a video message is so appreciated, but giving his grandson one final gift from his Grandfather (Pops) is just incredible. I cannot tell you how grateful we are as a family and I am sure it will be experience my son Joshua will look forward to so much. Thank you once again. The Killeen Family."