The frustration surrounding Kobbie Mainoo's lack of playing time at Manchester United has been publicly highlighted by his own family, casting further doubt on his future at the club.
Brother's Bold Statement at Old Trafford
During Manchester United's dramatic 4-4 Premier League draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday night, a pointed message was delivered from the stands. Jordan Mainoo-Hames, the brother of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, shared a photo on social media of himself wearing a custom T-shirt. The shirt bore the clear and provocative slogan: "FREE KOBBIE MAINOO."
This public act of support underscores the growing tension regarding the 20-year-old England international's situation. Mainoo has found first-team opportunities severely limited this season under manager Ruben Amorim, sparking intense speculation about a potential January transfer window departure.
A Season Spent on the Sidelines
The core of the issue lies in Mainoo's startling lack of minutes. He has not started a single one of Manchester United's 16 Premier League matches in the 2025/26 campaign. His sole start this term came in the Carabao Cup defeat away at Grimsby Town.
This represents a dramatic fall from grace for a player who enjoyed a spectacular breakthrough season in 2023/24. That campaign saw him become a vital part of the United midfield, culminating in him scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup final and earning a call-up to the England national team.
United legend Paul Scholes recently voiced serious concern, warning that Mainoo's career is "being ruined" by his current predicament and advising him to consider leaving Old Trafford to reignite his development.
Amorim's Explanation and January Exit Talks
Ahead of the Bournemouth match, manager Ruben Amorim was directly questioned about whether Mainoo had discussed a potential loan move. The Portuguese coach stated he was open to conversation, saying, "If Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him... I just want my players happy and I understand that every individual has their goals."
He explained the tactical dilemma, noting, "We play with two midfielders... Kobbie Mainoo is playing in the same position as Bruno Fernandes and sometimes it's really hard to take Bruno Fernandes out of the team and that is the only reason."
Discussions about a January exit are already underway, following a summer transfer request from Mainoo that was rejected by the club. His introduction as a substitute for Casemiro after the hour mark against Bournemouth was met with a loud cheer from the Old Trafford faithful, indicating strong fan support for the academy graduate.
The match itself was a thrilling affair, with United twice surrendering the lead. Goals from Amad, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Matheus Cunha were not enough for victory, as Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi struck an 84th-minute equaliser to secure a 4-4 draw.
What Happens Next for Kobbie Mainoo?
The public statement from his brother, combined with Scholes' stark warning and the ongoing transfer talk, creates significant pressure on both the player and the club. With the January transfer window approaching, a decision on Mainoo's immediate future at Manchester United appears imminent. The key question is whether Amorim can find a way to integrate the talented midfielder into his plans, or if a temporary or permanent move away becomes the necessary step to free Kobbie Mainoo and salvage a promising career.
