Frustrated by his lack of minutes under Ruben Amorim, Kobbie Mainoo is prepared to demand a January loan move away from Manchester United in a bid to save his place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly considering a January escape from Manchester United as he fights to keep his 2026 World Cup dream alive. The 20-year-old midfielder, once seen as the crown jewel of United’s academy, has grown increasingly frustrated with his lack of opportunities under new boss Ruben Amorim.
England starlet running out of patience
It’s been a dramatic fall from grace for Mainoo. Just over a year ago, he was lining up for England in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. Now, he finds himself on the fringes of both club and country, with Thomas Tuchel making it clear that regular minutes are non-negotiable if the youngster is to earn a seat on the plane to North America next summer.
A bleak situation at Old Trafford
Mainoo has featured just four times this season, with only one start — a dismal Carabao Cup exit at the hands of League Two side Grimsby. For a player once tipped as the heartbeat of United’s future midfield, the lack of faith from Amorim has been crushing.
Behind the scenes, Mainoo has worked tirelessly to win back his place, but his manager has rarely turned to him, even as United’s struggles continue. Talks last week saw Amorim stress that the midfielder remains part of his long-term project, but also urged him to fight harder for his spot. The reassurances, however, have done little to change Mainoo’s mind.
January loan now on the table
The England international already attempted to secure a loan move in the summer, but United blocked his request, promising him chances at Old Trafford. Those promises have not materialised, leaving Mainoo ready to force the issue in January. According to The Daily Star, the midfielder is determined to seek a move if his situation doesn’t improve quickly.
World Cup dream slipping away
For Mainoo, the stakes couldn’t be clearer. The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada is fast approaching, and Tuchel’s stance is firm: no regular football, no England call-up. Without a change of scenery, Mainoo’s hopes of representing his country on the biggest stage risk slipping through his fingers.
