Manchester United have reportedly made a decision about Kobbie Mainoo’s future as interest continues to grow in the midfielder’s services. Mainoo had been angling for a loan move away from the club in the summer, with United opting to block any short-term exits.
Mainoo had reportedly wanted to leave in order to bolster his chances of making the England World Cup squad next summer. The Stockport-born ace was part of Gareth Southgate’s side for last year’s European Championship in Germany, with Mainoo muscling his way into the starting XI.
However, Mainoo is yet to be called up to any of Thomas Tuchel’s England squads, and he’s reportedly ‘concerned’ about his prospects of getting back into the squad. And much to Mainoo’s frustration, his struggles for game time may continue for the second half of the season, as United aren’t willing to let him leave in January, as per TeamTalk.
It’s claimed the Red Devils’ position hasn’t changed from the summer, even though plenty of clubs are said to have registered an interest. Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Napoli are among the teams believed to be keeping tabs on Mainoo, who has yet to start a Premier League match so far this season.
Amorim was said to be keen to keep hold of Mainoo, and speaking after the international break, he explained: “I didn’t have a conversation with him before the window closed because I didn’t want Kobbie Mainoo thinking that I was having a conversation with him just to hold on to him. I did it this week.
“I believe in him a lot. He is a top player. But some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done [a complete player]. I think he can do so much better. For some guys [talent] is enough, but for him it is not. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie and that’s it.”
With United not competing in Europe this season and the 20-time English champions having already been knocked out of the League Cup, Mainoo’s only hope of a run in the team is via the Premier League. But with Amorim not budging on his stance, it doesn’t look likely Mainoo will be given a stint in the starting XI.