The midfielder went on to join Manchester United at nine.
He earned his place in the England Euros 2024 squad at 19 on the back of his successful season with the club.
Mr Vare said Mainoo is an inspiration “to all the kids, not just within Cheadle & Gatley, but within grassroots football”.
“The moral of this story for kids out there is if you’re good enough and you want to go professional, then why not.”
Palmer and Mainoo’s success is similar to Manchester City’s Foden, who grew up in Stockport and joined the club’s academy aged four.
The 24-year-old is tipped to play a major role at Euro 2024, having enjoyed his highest-scoring season with the club.
England begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.
The games are being shown across Greater Manchester, including at Palmer’s youth team NJ Wythenshawe’s clubhouse.
“The atmosphere is going to be electric, especially if Cole gets on,” Mr Fowler said.
