Rising star Kobbie Mainoo could be on the verge of a winter departure from Manchester United, according to his former teammate Phil Jones. With game time limited and competition fierce in midfield, speculation is growing that the young England international may seek opportunities elsewhere — potentially forcing a move when the January transfer window opens.
Mainoo’s Struggles for Minutes Under Amorim
Manchester United’s decision to appoint Ruben Amorim came with hopes of tactical renewal, but the midfield remains a weak link in an otherwise expensive rebuild. Despite spending over £200 million in the summer, United failed to resolve their issues in the middle of the park — a problem highlighted by the absence of consistent minutes for Kobbie Mainoo.
The 19-year-old, once seen as a breakthrough talent under Erik ten Hag, now finds himself sidelined in Amorim’s setup. The Portuguese boss stirred controversy late in the transfer window by publicly stating that Mainoo would be competing directly with Bruno Fernandes — a move that didn’t sit well with the United board and has reportedly frustrated the player.
Mainoo Eyeing Regular Football Ahead of World Cup
Mainoo’s ambition to secure a spot in England’s World Cup squad hinges on regular club appearances — something that currently seems unlikely at Old Trafford. His desire to find consistent playing time reportedly led to a last-minute search for a loan move, though nothing materialized before the window closed.
United’s hierarchy, unhappy with Amorim’s handling of the situation, allegedly described the manager’s public comments as “stupid and unnecessary.” The friction has only intensified talk of an exit, especially with Mainoo eager to keep progressing on both club and international fronts.
Phil Jones Backs a Potential January Move
Speaking on Stadium Astro, former United defender Phil Jones praised Mainoo’s potential but acknowledged the difficult situation the midfielder faces under Amorim.
“Kobbie is a player that I really admire,” Jones said. “I loved watching him come into the team — especially his debut at Everton. He absolutely bossed that game. It was a mature performance, and he carried that momentum forward.”
Jones didn’t shy away from predicting a January exit, adding, “It just looks like at the minute he’s out of favour. The manager has made it clear he won’t be starting ahead of Bruno, and with Bruno’s current form, that won’t change. If things stay the same, I wouldn’t be surprised if Kobbie forces a move in January.”
Transfer Talk: Swap Deal Rumours on the Horizon?
Amid ongoing midfield concerns, Manchester United have been linked with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba — a possible target in January. Rumours suggest a potential swap deal could be in the works, with Mainoo heading out in exchange to rebalance United’s midfield structure.
Whether that scenario plays out or not, Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford seems increasingly uncertain as the January window approaches.
