“Sooner or later”: Club director responds to United ace’s January transfer links

Kobbie Mainoo’s recent struggles at Manchester United continue to dominate headlines ahead of the January transfer window. The Englishman has gone from an indispensable name during former manager Erik ten Hag’s reign to a peripheral figure under Ruben Amorim in just over a year. This season, Mainoo has registered 11 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils, only one of which was from the start. All of the 20 year old’s 10 appearances in the Premier League have been from the bench further adding to speculation regarding his future. Kobbie Mainoo Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League10—-183′ EFL Cup1-1–90′ Total11-1–273′ Source: Transfermarkt.Mainoo, who was part of England’s starting XI for the Euro 2024 final against Spain, has subsequently lost his place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad, and his involvement at the 2026 FIFA World Cup now remains in doubt. Not short of options Despite the youngster’s lack of game time this season, his stock remains high, and there is already a long line of suitors offering him an escape route from the Theatre of Dreams. Meanwhile, it is unclear if Mainoo’s situation at United will change any time soon, especially as Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have been Amorim’s preferred midfield duo this season. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that the Englishman has a frosty relationship with the Portuguese head coach. The Premier League giants are also linked with several midfielders, with the club expected to strengthen the position next year. The situation is not ideal for the Englishman, who could be tempted to consider a fresh start in January. Recent reports have suggested that Napoli are ready to move mountains to win the race for the Englishman in January. The Serie A club’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has now responded to those rumours. Manna acknowledges Mainoo links Speaking to Tuttomercatoweb, Manna remained coy about a possible move for Mainoo in January. He said: “He’s a player who has been linked with Napoli since August, partly because of his age, potential, and opportunities.” “But the team is doing well and has consolidated its position. We have some important players out, but sooner or later our lads will be back, strong and determined. We need to make the right assessments and see how things progress as we go along.” United legend Paul Parker has already advised Mainoo to leave the club in 2026, and the player’s future will be subject to intense scrutiny in the coming weeks. Final Thoughts It is hard to pinpoint the exact reason for Mainoo’s situation at United, although it is clear that the player deserves to play regularly. Fans will only hope that the Red Devils can find a solution to the issue soon, as it is not helping the club’s cause. The Englishman could leave on loan in January and return with more experience under his belt in the summer to stake a claim in Amorim’s starting XI. However, given his academy status, INEOS could also be tempted to consider a permanent sale, especially as it would help in adhering to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. Kobbie Mainoo completed more passes (12/13) and won more fouls (2) than any other midfielder on the pitch during his appearance vs. Wolves. A fantastic reception. 👏 pic.twitter.com/afC6Y20rHP — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) December 8, 2025 Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.