Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United is increasingly uncertain as his lack of game time continues under head coach Ruben Amorim.
The 20-year-old midfielder has featured sparingly this season, managing just 212 minutes in the Premier League across 11 appearances. Despite his status as an England international, Mainoo has struggled to establish himself in Amorim’s preferred midfield options.
Mainoo requested a loan move away from Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, but that request was rejected by the club. His situation has not improved since, with competition from Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes limiting his opportunities.
Amorim stance and growing frustration
Amorim has repeatedly played down suggestions that Mainoo is being sidelined deliberately. Speaking in early December, the Manchester United head coach insisted selection decisions are purely tactical.
“I don’t know what is going to happen,” Amorim said. “It depends. I’ve seen the training. If it’s the best thing for the team, I will put him in.
“You love Kobbie, he starts for England. But that doesn’t mean I need to put Kobbie in when I feel that I shouldn’t.”
The frustration around Mainoo’s situation became more visible earlier this week when his brother was pictured at United’s home draw with Bournemouth wearing a jumper reading “Free Kobbie Mainoo”.
With a World Cup scheduled for the summer, regular football is becoming increasingly important. Mainoo was part of England’s Euro 2024 squad, but prolonged inactivity could jeopardise his international prospects.
Former United legends urge a move
Former Manchester United midfielders Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt have both publicly suggested that Mainoo should consider leaving Old Trafford to protect his development.
Scholes believes a move to Chelsea should be taken seriously if it materialises.
“If Chelsea come in, I would say go,” Scholes said on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast. “Without a doubt, go.”
Scholes also pointed to Mainoo’s rapid rise, highlighting his role in United’s FA Cup triumph and his involvement with England at Euro 2024.
Butt echoed those concerns, warning that Mainoo risks stagnating if his situation does not change.
“For his future in football, he has to go,” Butt said. “He’s already lost 18 months of development.”
The former United academy coach also suggested that a move abroad could be beneficial, though he did not dismiss the possibility of a Premier League switch.
Five potential January destinations for Kobbie Mainoo
Napoli
Napoli came close to securing Mainoo on loan during the summer window and remain an option. Head coach Antonio Conte has recently turned to Premier League midfielders with success, including Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour.
With Kevin De Bruyne sidelined by a serious muscle injury, Napoli could again look to the Premier League for midfield reinforcements.
Chelsea
Chelsea continue to target elite young talent and are not afraid to make bold moves in the market. Mainoo would fit their long-term recruitment strategy and could find a clearer pathway to regular minutes in a youthful squad.
Scholes’ public endorsement only adds fuel to speculation surrounding a potential move to Stamford Bridge.
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham are still searching for balance in midfield. Thomas Frank has rotated between Archie Gray, João Palhinha, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur, with no settled combination emerging.
A reported January cash injection could allow Spurs to strengthen, and Mainoo’s profile would suit their emphasis on energy and technical quality.
Everton
Everton could offer Mainoo a different kind of opportunity. Head coach David Moyes has a strong track record of revitalising players short on confidence or rhythm.
The loan signing of Jack Grealish has proven successful this season, and Mainoo would be likely to receive regular Premier League minutes at Goodison Park.
AS Roma
AS Roma explored a move for Mainoo during the summer and remain a potential destination. A switch to Serie A could provide a fresh environment away from the Premier League spotlight, while still offering European football and tactical development.