Manchester United planning to block January departure of Kobbie Mainoo

Manchester United will reportedly not allow English midfielder of Ghanaian descent Kobbie Mainoo to leave the club in the January transfer window.

The decision comes as United brace for a challenging period during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which begins just before Christmas. Key players, including Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and full-back Noussair Mazraoui, are expected to be unavailable due to international duty.

With the AFCON group stage set to end on December 31, the final scheduled for January 18, and the winter transfer window closing on February 2, United could face a shortage of options in key positions—particularly on the right flank.

As a result, players like Mainoo and forward Joshua Zirkzee, who have both seen limited minutes so far, are expected to be given greater involvement during the busy festive period. Mainoo is yet to start a Premier League game this season, while Zirkzee has made just five appearances.

United’s reluctance to sanction Mainoo’s departure reflects the club’s plan to keep depth within the squad and maintain rotation flexibility during a crucial stage of the campaign.