Story byKobbie Mainoo pushing for loan move but Manchester United insist on keeping himFootball TodayThu, December 25, 2025 at 7:44 AM UTC·1 min readKobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United has become a source of speculation. The 20-year-old is highly regarded by United, but he is currently struggling for game time under manager Ruben Amorim. Mainoo is pushing to leave the Red Devils on loan next month, but the club insist on keeping him. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementSources close to the youngster’s agency feel that United are hindering his development by blocking a loan exit. He was a regular starter last season, but he has made just 11 substitute Premier League appearances this season. Mainoo is frustrated with his current situation, but he has behaved like a model professional throughout the campaign, leaving the club impressed with his attitude in training. Amorim views the England international as a number eight, thus competing with Bruno Fernandes for the same spot. Fernandes sustained a hamstring injury during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, and he could be out for around a month. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMainoo would probably have started against Newcastle United on Friday. However, the young midfielder has also picked up a calf issue, ruling him out of the Boxing Day match. Mainoo is one of the best players to come out of United’s academy. Despite his young age, he has already made 84 senior appearances for United, with seven goals and three assists to his name. He is highly rated for his exceptional technique, maturity and game intelligence, but isn’t suited to Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation. Stats from Transfermarkt.
