Sir Alex Ferguson's high hopes for Kobbie Mainoo could be dashed with the out-of-favour midfielder already at a crossroad in his Manchester United career and potentially leaving before Monday
Kobbie Mainoo walks out against Grimsby
Kobbie Mainoo made a rare start against Grimsby(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Ruben Amorim risks going against a club tradition championed by Sir Alex Ferguson if he sanctions the departure of Kobbie Mainoo.
The out-of-favour midfielder could be moved on by the club, possibly before the September 1 transfer deadline. A £45m exit has been mooted, which would have the benefit of counting as pure profit on the PSR balance sheets. On the downside, it would see what was once such a promising United career cut short.
The then-teenage midfielder broke into the side under Erik ten Hag during the 2023/24 season and was instrumental as United won that season’s FA Cup. Gareth Southgate had seen enough to draft him into his squad for Euro 2024 and Mainoo started every knockout game during England’s run to the final.
His early success saw Sir Alex shower him with praise ahead of the 2024/25 season, which should have seen him kick on. As he addressed the impact of Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, the United managerial icon spoke of the importance of giving youth a chance, telling TikToker Jamal Niaz: “It’s the foundation, isn’t it?
“It’s the heart and soul of what Manchester United has been since the days of Sir Matt Busby, who started the whole process of trusting young players playing.
Sir Alex Ferguson looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal FC at Parc des Princes on May 07, 2025 in Paris, France.
Sir Alex Ferguson was once full enthusiam about Mainoo's emergence at United
“They’re young. What they’re showing at the moment, the composure and confidence to play in the first team, and not be daunted by it.
“In a way, it shows you the kind of courage they have. It’s a distinction in human beings, some have the will to be that [fearless at a young age].”
However, Mainoo’s career has stagnated under Amorim, while talks over a new contract have stalled. Last season saw him struggle with injury and fail to nail down a consistent role in the side.
Little seems to have changed so far this term, with Mainoo an unused substitute in both of United’s league games so far.
He started Wednesday’s Carabao Cup humiliation at Grimsby Town, and while he was far from United’s worst performer, he did little to enhance his claims for a regular starting berth.
Ruben Amorim talking to Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo is not in Ruben Amorim's plans at present(Image: PA)
Amorim has made all the right noises about the youngster’s ability and attitude, but given United’s continuing malaise, no player is safe from the chopping block, let alone one who doesn’t appear to be in the boss' plans at present.
Reports claim as many as 10 clubs are monitoring Mainoo, and the Daily Mail have credited the likes of Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Napoli with interest. Newcastle United have also been linked with him.
However, any sale – whether this week or in the future – would disappoint many United fans and presumably Ferguson too.