Key Takeaways:
- Zirkzee and Mainoo have both requested moves in the winter transfer window due to limited playing time
- Manchester United will not permit their departure as increased involvement is planned during December and January
- Key squad members will be absent for the Africa Cup of Nations, with the tournament scheduled from December 21 to January 18
Situation Surrounding Zirkzee and Mainoo
Manchester United have declined transfer requests from Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo, who are both seeking more regular football and wish to secure moves away from Old Trafford during the January transfer window. Since the start of the season, Zirkzee has logged just 90 minutes across five matches, without being included in the starting eleven since April. Meanwhile, Mainoo has collected eight appearances so far this campaign, featuring from the outset only in the League Cup defeat to Grimsby Town.
🚨 JUST IN:
Manchester United are prepared to BLOCK requests from their players to leave in January amid an expectant squad shortage.
Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee have had limited game time this season but are both in line for key roles around Christmas time, with Bryan… pic.twitter.com/YmRjsDwo5H
— mufcmpb (@mufcMPB) October 27, 2025
Club’s Plans During International Absences
The club’s refusal to sanction their exits stems from manager Ruben Amorim’s intention to rely more heavily on both players throughout December and January. This strategy comes as Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are expected to report for international duty with Cameroon and Ivory Coast, respectively, during the Africa Cup of Nations. Similarly, Noussair Mazraoui is set to join the Morocco national team for the duration of the tournament.
Key Dates: Africa Cup of Nations and Transfer Window Deadline
| Tournament/Event | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Africa Cup of Nations | December 21 | January 18 |
| Winter Transfer Window | January 1 | February 2 |
With the Africa Cup of Nations running from December 21 to January 18, and the winter transfer window closing on February 2, Manchester United are prioritising squad depth during a critical stretch of the season and, consequently, will be retaining both Zirkzee and Mainoo despite their wishes to depart.
