Transfer news around Man United took a sharp turn this week as Kobbie Mainoo, who was once a promising young talent, was handed a new role. This decision was taken due to his very limited playtime and future with the club. Mainoo’s new role can give him more opportunity to deliver his skills on the pitch. With stars like Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro fighting for the regular spots, Mainoo’s development will be crucial. The opportunity also came just before the winter transfer window, which could affect Mainoo’s rumored move.
Mainoo has been given a new role at United, shifting from his usual midfield position to a more advanced role. His new role places him closer to the attacking front so that he can showcase his offensive abilities. This tactical change gives him more freedom on the pitch, highlighting his dribbling skills. Mainoo isn’t a newbie when it comes to showing composure in the box. We saw Mainoo’s shooting ability when he took that shot against Liverpool’s defense. We also saw his heroic clutch goal against Lyon in the Europa League last season. Mainoo has composure inside the box while also being able to press high up the pitch. His new role allows him to move near the opponent’s penalty box and gives him the freedom to produce individual brilliance. The move also reflects United’s strategy to make their squad more dynamic by having Bruno and Casemiro play deeper and deliver long balls to Cunha and Sesko. It’s crucial to see how well he can adapt to his new role.
The reaction Kobbie Mainoo received from Man United fans when he was subbed on 🥰
He completed more passes and won more fouls than any other midfielder on the pitch during his appearance 👏 pic.twitter.com/bmJ0ISfEzn
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) December 9, 2025
Could Mainoo’s role his affect his potential transfer?
Mainoo’s new role at Old Trafford could have a big effect on his future and his transfer. Playing in a more advanced position in the midfield, he now has a chance to show the world what he is capable of in attack. Before this change in Amorim’s tactics, Mainoo was on Conte’s winter signing list. Napoli currently sits in 2nd position in Serie A and has the same points as AC Milan. With De Bruyne’s recent thigh injury, which will keep him out until next year, Conte needs a good holding midfielder. Mainoo has every possibility to thrive under the bright lights of the Diego Maradona Stadium. But United’s new role will give him more options and won’t make him a direct competitor to Bruno or Casemiro. If he performs well, it could convince the management to give him a new deal. This new role could increase his value or lead to a move where he can play in his natural position outside United.
How Old Trafford feel about Mainoo’s new position at United
United fans have shown mixed reactions regarding Mainoo’s new role. Many are excited about the position change, which will give him more freedom and allow him to showcase his skills on the pitch. However, some fans are concerned that moving from his natural position may affect his performance and hinder his development. Mainoo showed his skills in the last game against Wolves, but fans are worried that his form might drop in big games.
Author’s insight
From author’s view, Mainoo’s new role at United is a big opportunity. If he adapts well he could secure more playtime. Otherwise, he might be on his way out of Old Trafford
As featured on ManUNews.com