Kobbie Mainoo has informed Manchester United about his desire to leave on loan before the transfer window closes on Monday night.
The England international has fallen down the pecking order under manager Ruben Amorim this campaign. He has been an unused substitute in the first two Premier League games.
Mainoo was back in the starting XI for the Carabao Cup second round tie against Grimsby Town. He had a decent outing despite the club’s shock defeat in a penalty shoot-out.
The Athletic journalist David Ornstein now reports that Mainoo has revealed his desire to pursue a temporary move away from the club to play regularly ahead of the World Cup next year.
Mainoo does not necessarily want to sever ties with the Red Devils, but believes his current situation does not provide the opportunity to develop his football career.
Despite the midfielder’s plea, United have no plans to sanction a loan. They value their academy graduate and expect him to stay and fight for a place under Amorim.
United set to keep Mainoo despite his playing time concerns
The 20-year-old was regarded as one of the best young midfielders under former manager Erik ten Hag, but his importance has reduced since Amorim took charge.
The Portuguese tactician was reluctant to play Mainoo from central midfield towards the end of the previous season, highlighting his lack of defensive awareness.
The United graduate has not come off the bench in the first two league games. Speaking after the Fulham draw, Amorim said that Mainoo is competing with captain Bruno Fernandes for the number eight role.
The duo played together during the second half against Grimsby yesterday, but Mainoo ought to be concerned as he may not displace Fernandes from the starting line-up in the Premier League.
United are likely to sign a new holding midfielder before the transfer deadline. In that case, Mainoo could be restricted to minutes off the bench, and could be an unused substitute on many occasions.
Despite this, the Red Devils remain firm that Mainoo won’t be loaned out. The youngster has no choice but to fight for his place. He could push for a permanent exit in the long run if his situation does not improve.