Manchester United are not yet ready to sell Kobbie Mainoo as reasons come to light.
Manchester United remain extremely hesitant over sanctioning a loan move for Kobbie Mainoo in January, despite the midfielder’s continued lack of playing time and growing frustration behind the scenes. The preference internally is still for Mainoo to remain at Old Trafford for the entire season, with sources indicating that squad depth and overall quality are the main reasons the club are resisting a temporary exit.
It has been a difficult campaign for the 20-year-old, whose early promise and breakthrough performances have been followed by a period of stagnation. Mainoo has mostly been restricted to late cameos, unable to gain rhythm or demonstrate the influence he showed last season. As things stand, it is becoming increasingly hard to see him thriving under the current manager, especially with tactical concerns raised during pre-season now playing out in real time.
The situation is further complicated by Manchester United’s concerns over asset value. According to TEAMtalk, those close to the club admit there is a real fear that a loan spell could actually reduce Mainoo’s market worth if he fails to impress elsewhere.
That scenario, in turn, could leave both player and club at a disadvantage ahead of future negotiations or potential sales. Conversely, the club are equally wary of the alternative: if Mainoo excels on loan, United risk being criticised for sidelining him in the first place, a narrative they would rather avoid as scrutiny on their recruitment and development choices continues to intensify.
Mainoo originally pushed for a loan exit in August, and sources suggest he is likely to do so again in January. Yet Manchester United remain reluctant. They still view him as a valuable squad option, particularly with fixture congestion tightening after the new year.
At the same time, permanent offers could arrive during the winter window, and although Manchester United are not actively encouraging bids, such proposals could add a new level of complexity. A sale, while not the preferred route, may eventually be considered, especially if the funds help facilitate reinforcements of their own.
There is also the looming question of Mainoo’s long-term future. His contract runs until 2027, but there has been little progress toward an extension, and the uncertainty only heightens the need for clarity. His England ambitions are also fading without regular minutes, another factor weighing heavily on the player’s mind.
Manchester United know they cannot delay decisions much longer. With Mainoo increasingly stuck in limbo, the club must soon choose whether to back him as part of their future or allow him to seek opportunities elsewhere. Balancing the midfielder’s frustrations with their own desire to protect his value, and their own position, will define the months ahead.