Manchester United stand firm on Mainoo’s future
Romano reported that both Amorim and United’s hierarchy have made it clear to Mainoo that they want him to remain part of the squad when the January transfer window opens. Despite his limited playing time, the club believes his development is best served under Amorim’s guidance rather than away on loan.
Mainoo had also explored a possible move last summer, but United blocked his exit after failing to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba. While Baleba remains a player United admire, Romano said a January deal is “unlikely” because Brighton are reluctant to sell mid-season.
Amorim’s confidence in Mainoo
“We have to see what they decide to do with Kobbie Mainoo, who wants to go and play on loan, as he wanted at the end of August,” Romano explained. “But Kobbie Mainoo knows that Man United and Ruben Amorim want to keep him at the club. So I think there are several factors that are going to impact Manchester United’s decisions.”
Romano added that while Baleba is still “appreciated” internally, any move for the Brighton prospect remains “difficult” at this stage. Amorim, meanwhile, is said to value Mainoo’s energy, discipline, and potential contribution to United’s evolving midfield.
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Limited opportunities so far
Mainoo missed United’s recent 2–2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur due to a minor injury. So far this season, he has played 228 minutes in all competitions under Amorim, making just one start — the Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town in August.
He was also an unused substitute in the 2–2 draw at Nottingham Forest and has yet to feature this month. His last Premier League start came in May during United’s 2–0 defeat to West Ham United.
Balancing development and ambition
Born in Stockport, Mainoo remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2027, with the club holding an option for an additional year. Although his immediate future is uncertain, Amorim reportedly views him as an integral part of United’s long-term project — a stance that could keep him in Manchester past January.
Mainoo’s patience will be tested if opportunities remain limited, but his situation reflects a familiar challenge for young talents at elite clubs: balancing the hunger for experience with the demands of squad depth in a long, congested season.
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Sources: Fabrizio Romano (GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast)
