Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly still seeking guarantees over his future at the club, despite the sudden departure of manager Ruben Amorim. The 20-year-old's long-term commitment to his boyhood club remains in doubt as he awaits clarity on his role within the squad.
Contract Stalemate and Managerial Turbulence
Mainoo's current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2027, giving him just 18 months remaining on his existing deal. Negotiations over a new contract had stalled while Amorim was in charge at Old Trafford. The talented England hopeful struggled to win a regular place in the starting line-up under the Portuguese coach after his initial breakthrough under previous manager Erik ten Hag.
The situation had become so strained that a summer move to Chelsea was heavily mooted, although the two clubs ultimately failed to agree on a transfer fee. With his first-team opportunities limited, Mainoo was even considered for a January loan move to boost his fading prospects of making Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the upcoming World Cup.
A New Chance Under Darren Fletcher?
The dismissal of Ruben Amorim on January 11, 2026, has altered the landscape significantly. Reports this week suggested interim boss Darren Fletcher would offer Mainoo a fresh opportunity to revive his Manchester United career. A source close to the player stated: "Amorim leaving definitely increases the chances of Kobbie staying at United. But it's not a given. He wants assurances from officials about how they see him fitting into the squad and the first team."
The key factor for Mainoo is now believed to be a clear pathway back to regular Premier League football. He is prepared to reassess his future if he is convinced that consistent starts are back on the menu at Old Trafford.
No Room for Excuses, Warns Owen
While the managerial change may provide a lifeline, former United striker Michael Owen has warned that the pressure is now squarely on Mainoo's shoulders. Speaking to Metro via casino.org, Owen emphasised that the player has no more excuses for not reclaiming his spot.
"Now it's down to Mainoo," Owen said. "It's all right blaming people, but of course, his time is now going to come and he's got to take it. He's got to take that opportunity because if the next manager doesn't play him... then at some point, a little bit like Marcus Rashford, those doubts might start to creep in."
Owen concluded that Mainoo must now prove Amorim wrong for not selecting him, stating the midfielder is likely to get his chance and must seize it without hesitation.
