Key Takeaways:
- On Saturday, Manchester United suffered a 3-1 defeat to Brentford, with Kobbie Mainoo’s late error contributing to the opposition’s third goal
- Mainoo has made only three substitute appearances this season, without a single start in any competition
- Napoli, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid are all monitoring Mainoo’s potential availability ahead of the January window
Mainoo’s Frustrations Grow as Opportunities Dwindle
Kobbie Mainoo is considering a move away from Manchester United in the January transfer window, having grown increasingly disillusioned with his limited playing time under Ruben Amorim. Despite being just 20 years old, Mainoo has been used sparingly since the start of the season, featuring only as a substitute on three occasions and failing to make the starting eleven in any competition. United had denied his push for a loan move prior to the summer window deadline, holding firm in their belief that he would have an integral role in the coming campaign.
🧐 If Ruben Amorim is still in the United job in January, it would be 'surprising' if Kobbie Mainoo didn't make another attempt to leave.
Napoli would've been his #1 choice if he had been allowed to depart on loan this past summer 🥇🇮🇹
[@ChrisWheelerDM/@NathSalt1] #MUFC pic.twitter.com/doHVFWvvAM
— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) September 30, 2025
Crucial Error Highlights Growing Tension
Concerns over his lack of minutes reached a new high during Saturday’s dispiriting 3-1 loss to Brentford. Entering the match late in the second half, Mainoo made a decisive mistake in stoppage time, inadvertently gifting Brentford their third and final goal. This incident appears to have been a pivotal moment for Mainoo and his representatives, leading him to prepare a renewed request to leave Old Trafford in January should Amorim remain in charge.
European Giants Circling with Napoli Leading the Chase
Interest in Mainoo is strong across Europe, with Napoli identified as his preferred destination if an exit is sanctioned. The Italian club, who had already expressed significant interest during the summer window, remain keen to secure the midfielder’s services. Mainoo is reportedly attracted to Napoli’s project and the prospect of joining a young, ambitious squad that features an expanding English-speaking cohort, including former Manchester United colleague Scott McTominay. Striker Rasmus Hojlund, who signed last summer, has also settled well into the environment.
Elsewhere, both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are closely monitoring developments. Madrid, who have prioritised scouting burgeoning talent throughout Europe, regard Mainoo as a long-term option and draw favourable comparisons between his attributes and Luka Modric, who departed the club last summer. Atletico view Mainoo as a potential successor for their ageing midfielders and are willing to offer the regular first-team opportunities he currently lacks.
| Club | Interest Level | Potential Role for Mainoo |
|---|---|---|
| Napoli | Primary target; mutual interest | Key figure in young, dynamic squad |
| Real Madrid | Closely monitoring; long-term prospect | Potential Modric successor |
| Atletico Madrid | Actively scouting | Replacement for veteran midfielders |
Uncertain Future Amid Managerial Decisions
United supporters have expressed surprise at Amorim’s reluctance to utilise Mainoo, especially given the midfielder’s impressive displays under Erik ten Hag. Unless the situation changes, Mainoo seems poised to pursue opportunities abroad, with the January transfer window promising a pivotal moment in his career trajectory.
