Kobbie Mainoo considers Manchester United exit amid limited opportunities. In an unexpected turn of events, Kobbie Mainoo, the talented academy graduate of Manchester United, considers leaving after recently falling down the pecking order under manager Ruben Amorim. The 20-year-old midfielder once viewed as the future of Manchester United and England. Although he has yet to play a minute this season.
Fall from Favor
The decline in Mainoo’s position within the club is shocking given the rise he experienced in the 2023-24 season where he scored in the FA Cup final and even started for England in the Euro 2024 final. Recently, however, Amorim has changed the tactical setup with a two-man midfield, running with captain Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte, which sees Mainoo fighting for game time literally against the club captain. So, it follows that Mainoo has been forced to begin the season on the bench for two games against Arsenal and Fulham.
Man United are expecting offers for midfielder Kobbie Mainoo amid growing interest from home and in Europe 🔴
Mainoo is understood to be open to leaving, but has not transmitted that stance to the club yet. pic.twitter.com/HIrWay4V31
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) August 27, 2025
Reduced Asking Price
Interestingly, just half a year ago, Manchester United was nominally valuing Mainoo at £70 million, but now the club will accept offers starting at £45 million to help facilitate a move to another club before the window closes. The club has not pushed Mainoo out but will listen to offers and indicate that their position has changed since January.
Preferred Destinations
Mainoo had believed to favour a move abroad with Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich showing interest. Chelsea have long admired him and will monitor the situation. But they already have a well stocked in midfield regardless.
🚨 When Chelsea enquired about Kobbie Mainoo in January, they were quoted a £70M asking price.
There is a belief that Manchester United would now accept around £45M, potentially even less.
(Source: @theathleticFC) pic.twitter.com/C5xHczaDHM
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 27, 2025
Contract Stalemate
The contracts situation will also add confusion. Mainoo earns only £20,000 a week. After coming through so quickly a year ago he now wants to jump to £180,000 a week. However, United doesn’t want to come anywhere near those demands with little first-team action to speak of.
Manager’s Stance
Amorim was on record saying that Mainoo would have to “fight for his place” and earn it against Fernandes. However, sources close to the player suggest some frustration towards the lacking clarity regarding playing time from the coach. Mainoo appears to be “dumbfounded,” which leads to thoughts about leaving and trying to restart his career. Also, the 2026 World Cup not too far away.
What’s Next?
As the transfer window enters its final days, Mainoo’s situation remains fluid. A move abroad appears increasingly likely. However, United are risking the loss of a homegrown talent who embodies the club’s historic connection to its academy.