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5 hours ago
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Manchester United are reportedly bracing for tense discussions with Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the January transfer window.
Both players, said to be frustrated with limited minutes under Ruben Amorim, are pushing for answers — and possibly exits — if things don’t change soon.
Mainoo’s situation is particularly delicate. Once hailed as England’s midfield future, the 20-year-old now finds himself slipping down the pecking order.
After missing recent international call-ups, he fears his World Cup hopes under Thomas Tuchel may vanish if his game time doesn’t increase.
The midfielder has played just over 200 minutes this season — a figure that would make even a substitute goalkeeper raise an eyebrow.
According to reports (via ESPN), United want to reassure him of his long-term role and are open to holding talks before the window opens.
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But that hasn’t stopped interest from Europe. Napoli, who failed to sign Mainoo in the summer, are apparently confident they can secure him on a short-term loan this winter.
The Italian side reportedly view him as a perfect midfield addition, while Mainoo himself is keen to find consistent minutes elsewhere.
Manchester United’s proudest tradition in danger
It’s not just Mainoo who’s feeling uneasy. Joshua Zirkzee’s dream move to Old Trafford has turned into a bench-warming nightmare.
The Dutch forward, signed from Bologna for €42.5 million, has barely featured — playing just 82 minutes all season.
Falling behind Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, Zirkzee’s patience is running thin, and his national team spot under Ronald Koeman is now at risk.
AS Roma are rumored to be preparing a loan offer that could hand him a fresh start in Serie A — and a chance to reboot his form before the 2026 World Cup.
For Amorim, these potential departures pose a tough dilemma. Letting Mainoo go could end Manchester United’s proudest tradition — fielding at least one academy graduate in every matchday squad since 1937.
The Portuguese coach acknowledged the weight of that history earlier this season, saying: “We want to maintain it. The past of Manchester United is built on kids. I don’t want to be the guy that breaks that.”
United fans might be used to January drama, but this one could hit harder than most.
Two young talents, one legendary record, and a dressing room growing restless — Old Trafford may have to weather another storm before the year turns.
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