Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has revealed that the club blocked England midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo from leaving the this summer.
Softfootball understands that the academy graduate, asked to leave the club to get more playing time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as he is currently behind, Bruno Fernandez, Casemiro, Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and even Manuel Ugarte in the pecking order.
However the club strongly disagreed as Amorim considers him a very important part of the team despite not fielding him in two of the Premier League matches played so far. Although, he was named on the match day squads against Arsenal and Fulham, he hasn’t tested a minute of action so far.
Speaking to Manchester United’s official club media, Amorim insists that Mainoo is a vital part of the setup at Old Trafford and he doesn’t want him to leave the club.
He explained:
“Until it’s official, I cannot say much. I want Kobbie to say.
“He needs to fight for his place and we need Kobbie. That’s not going to change.
“I understand the players not playing in this moment are disappointed. Everyone will have the same opportunity to play. You have to fight.”
Mainoo made his first appearance for Manchester United this season in the Carabao Cup lackluster showdown against Grimsby Town on Wednesday, and provided an assist for Bryan Mbeumo’s first goal in a Red Devils shirt. But the match finished 2-2 after 90minutes and Man United lost 12-11 to the fourth division side on penalties to exit the competition.
Mainoo, who is currently on £50, 000 a week with just a year left on his current deal wants a new contract worth £180, 000 per week but the club is not willing to go that high considering their latest cost cutting measures which have seen them reduce salaries for not qualifying for the UEFA Champions League and reduction of staffs.
The transfer window closes on September 1 and Manchester United will hope that Mainoo’s representatives don’t try to force a move away from the club. The Red Devils are confident of agreeing a new contract with the England midfield.
Mainoo will hope to get into Ruben Amorim’s squad for Saturday’s Premier League match against newly promoted Burnley at Old Trafford as Manchester United look to get their first win on board this season.
