Manchester United block Kobbie Mainoo loan amid injury setbacks as midfielder pushes for game time

Manchester United have repeatedly blocked Kobbie Mainoo’s attempts to secure a loan move, with the club determined to keep the young midfielder in the squad following recent injury setbacks.

Mainoo, eager to gain regular first-team experience to aid his development, has made it clear he wants to play consistently rather than remain on the fringes. However, United’s position has hardened after injuries to Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount during the 3-2 Premier League win over Burnley.  

Cunha, a high-profile summer signing, was forced off in the first half with a suspected hamstring problem, while Mount, who had impressed in the opening stages, did not return after the break due to a knock. Mainoo was introduced as part of the reshuffle, delivering a composed performance and making key interventions late in the game.  

With both Cunha and Mount facing further assessment and potentially extended spells on the sidelines, manager Ruben Amorim is reluctant to weaken his midfield options by allowing Mainoo to leave. The 20-year-old, under contract until 2027, is understood to prefer a temporary move rather than a permanent exit, but United are unwilling to sanction any deal without first securing adequate cover.  

As the transfer deadline approaches, the situation leaves Mainoo at a crossroads — balancing his desire for development and game time against the club’s immediate need for depth in a challenging start to the season. For now, he remains a key part of United’s contingency plans.