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Oscar met plenty of Manchester United players during his visit to Carrington, but choosing a favourite was easy. Kobbie Mainoo got his vote.
The young supporter had travelled from Scotland with his father, Michael, for Manchester United Foundation’s latest Dream Day on Tuesday, 27 October. The twice-seasonal event gives supporters living with life-limiting illnesses an opportunity to meet the men’s first-team squad, watch a training session and spend time with their football heroes.
For Michael, however, the journey carried a significance that went well beyond photographs and autographs.
Michael described the experience as one of the most meaningful days he and his son had shared.
“It’s hard to put into words; it’s really emotional. I think Oscar is still in disbelief at meeting the players, but it means the absolute world. It’s probably the best experience of my life to be honest.”
His words take on greater significance when he explains what Oscar has already been through.
“Oscar was born with a rare condition called tracheo-oesophageal fistula which meant he had to have a lot of surgeries after his birth. During that time, he spent six months in intensive care before he could go for surgery again, but he still had to go for regular surgeries to maintain that. He handles everything so well and takes it in his stride, so it’s nice to be able to come down here and reward his resilience and show him the joy of overcoming all of that.”
For Michael, the invitation was an opportunity to recognise his son’s resilience and give him an experience focused on something he loves.
It is that personal history which explains why an afternoon at a football training ground can carry so much meaning for a family.
Head coach Michael Carrick joined Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Carlos Baleba, Kobbie Mainoo and their Manchester United teammates to meet the visiting supporters.
Players posed for photographs, signed autographs and spent time speaking individually with guests. Some had travelled from as far away as Norway to attend.
Manchester United Foundation works with external charities to arrange its Dream Days, providing opportunities for supporters and their families to enjoy an experience they might otherwise never have.
For the players, the occasion also offered a chance to hear directly from the people who follow them.
Bruno Fernandes spoke about the encouragement the squad receives from visiting families.
“They are always so positive and have such kind words, that energy goes both ways and this is what Manchester United is all about. It is part of the culture of the club.”
Harry Maguire echoed those sentiments, acknowledging the difficulties faced by many of the supporters attending.
“We know what tough times these fans are going through and how resilient they’ve been. They’re a huge inspiration for us. It’s a special day to have and one that we always look forward to as a team.”
The format of Dream Day is relatively simple. Supporters visit the training ground, watch the players at work and have a chance to meet them away from the usual matchday setting.
What makes the experience significant is the meaning each family brings to it.
For Michael, it was an opportunity to celebrate how his son had handled repeated medical treatment. For Oscar, it was the excitement of meeting the footballers he admires, with one particular midfielder making the biggest impression.
His verdict was wonderfully straightforward.
“It’s been amazing to meet the players; my favourite was Kobbie Mainoo!
I felt amazed to meet them. It’s very exciting and very special – I’ve loved it.”
For more information about the programme, visit the Manchester United Foundation.
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