Manchester United to Prevent January Departures for Mainoo and Zirkzee

Limited Playing Time

Manchester United is poised to forbid any departures in January for Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee, even as both players find themselves with limited opportunities under manager Ruben Amorim.

The duo has managed to accumulate a mere 220 minutes of playing time in the Premier League throughout United’s first nine matches.

Player Intentions

Mainoo, 20, expressed interest in seeking a loan move at the close of the summer transfer window, but the club swiftly rejected his appeal.

Meanwhile, Zirkzee, aged 24, has voiced his discontent regarding his lack of playing time and was contemplating a transfer in January, with a potential interest from West Ham.

Club’s Decision

According to a report from The Sun, Manchester United intends to dismiss any offers for these two players during the January transfer window, regardless of any direct requests.

The rationale behind this decision appears to be rooted in the anticipated absences of key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui due to participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The club aims to maintain a full squad.

The AFCON tournament is scheduled to commence just before Christmas and will run until January 18, which could leave United missing these players for a minimum of six league matches.