Manchester United have put a pause to the negotiations over Kobbie Mainoo’s potential new contract, with uncertainty surrounding his short-term future at the club.
Manchester United have looked a far better side than they were last season with heavy investment on making the Red Devils more clinical in the final third.
United spent big on the attacking line bringing in Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo all for heavy fees to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s attack.
This left question marks over where the midfield ranks in terms of priorities as it has proven to be an issue this season. Amorim has primarily trusted Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro to be the engine of his 3-4-3 system.
Manuel Ugarte was bought in from Paris Saint Germain for £42m in the summer of 2024 with the idea that he would be an elite ball winner for United, breaking down spells of possession for oppositions, but the Uruguayan has underperformed since his arrival and has left fans frustrated.
United do have talent in the squad that they would like to keep hold of, but Amorim’s persistence in his system may not fit the profiles of the squad.
Talks for Mainoo new contract on hold for now
Many fans have wanted to see a more trusted role in Kobbie Mainoo who has undeniable quality on the ball, with his ability to escape tight areas and evade challenges. United clearly acknowledge this talent but there has yet to be an opportunity where Mainoo can truly express himself on the pitch.
According to journalist Pete O’Rourke on Football Insider, Man Utd “don’t really want to lose Kobbie Mainoo” as the club still have their eyes set on Champions League qualification.
He stated, “I’m sure its [handing Mainoo a new contract] something that Man United would definitely be interested in doing.”
“They’ve been in talks with Mainoo for a while now over a new contract. Suggestions are now that the contract talks have been put on hold because of his uncertain future at Old Trafford.
“We know Mainoo was interested in a move away in the summer window as he knew he wasn’t going to be playing in Ruben Amorim’s side. I don’t think he’s started a Premier League game so far this season.”
Could injuries and AFCON give Mainoo a chance to shine
With AFCON getting closer and closer, United are set to lose Amad, Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui for a large amount of time in a very congested time for United’s fixture list.
Furthermore, Benjamin Sesko’s recent injury against Spurs means there are more holes in United’s squad that need repairing, and an opportunity for Mainoo to start could arise if Cunha moves to the striker position or if Fernandes is forced higher up the pitch.
With Mainoo still wanting to get consistent game-time, this could be his chance as United may look to offload other players, such as Joshua Zirkzee, who also has struggled to find his spot in Amorim’s side.
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United have been linked to a variety of midfield options as they look for the long term solution to the system, and with Mainoo’s contract running to 2027, with the option of another year, there still may be hope for the young Englishman to get back into the squad as he tries to re-establish himself in the England national squad ahead of the World Cup.
Mainoo starred in the 2024 Euros as he earned himself a starting spot in England’s team sheet, including a start in the final, as he helped England.
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