Kobbie Mainoo's future at Manchester United is in doubt after the 20-year-old midfielder has been reduced to a bit-part role under manager Ruben Amorim. The England international, who burst onto the scene under Erik ten Hag, has started only one match this season - a Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town in August - and has made all nine of his Premier League appearances from the bench.
Amorim's preference for other midfielders has seen Mainoo become an unused substitute in recent games, including Thursday's 1-1 draw with West Ham. Club legend Paul Scholes publicly criticised the decision, posting on Instagram: 'Bulls*** ... the kid is being ruined, not being played in a team that can't control a game of football.'
Mainoo's lack of game time has also damaged his England prospects. Manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the issue, saying: 'He's lacking minutes ... he is on our list, but in his position No6, No8, No10 we have players in full rhythm.' The midfielder has not featured for the Three Lions since his debut in March 2024.
With the January transfer window approaching, speculation has resurfaced about a potential move. Napoli showed interest in the summer, and United continue to be linked with Brighton's Carlos Baleba, which could push Mainoo further down the pecking order. The club's academy graduate now faces a pivotal decision about his future to revive his stalled career.
