Exclusive: Kobbie Mainoo Pushing for Manchester United Exit in January to Save England World Cup Hopes

Kobbie Mainoo is desperate to leave Manchester United in January to give himself the best chance of making England’s World Cup squad, SportsBoom can reveal.

The central midfielder wanted to leave Old Trafford in the summer to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s reckoning ahead of next summer’s World Cup and time is now running out for the 20-year-old to prove himself. 

But our sources have been told Ruben Amorim has no intention of letting the academy product leave in January. 

There are a number of clubs interested in securing the services of the talented prospect. 

Newcastle United remain keen on bolstering their midfield options with the addition of the 10-time England-capped youngster.

Aston Villa are ready to dip their toes into the water and are plotting a loan move following the success of Marcus Rashford’s short-term deal at Villa Park last season. 

Brentford’s interest in the player has cooled after they breifly considered a loan move for Mainoo in the summer with Keith Andrews said to be happy with his options at this stage of the campaign. 

Serie A champions Napoli are eager on luring Mainoo to Italy which would see him reunite with former Red Devils’ midfielder Scott McTominay and loan striker Rasmus Hojlund.

Our sources have been told chiefs at the league leaders are hopeful his close relationship with Scottish international McTominay could help put them to the front of the queue. 

Career Stalling

Mainoo's future was a hot topic in the closing days of the summer transfer window. 

And other than the embarrassing EFL Cup defeat to League Two Grimsby Town, Mainoo’s other seven appearances under Amorim this season have been cameos off the bench.

Mainoo’s role at Old Trafford this season is a farcry from what the player expected, as he is yet to start a match in the Premier League. 

It was only 16 months ago Mainoo had the world at his feet after a player-of-the-match performance when he scored the winner as Utd beat rivals Manchester City in the 2024 FA Cup final.