Napoli face major setback for Kobbie Mainoo transfer in January 2026

Over the last 12 months, Kobbie Mainoo has fallen from being a regular starter at Old Trafford to sitting on the Manchester United bench.

Under Erik ten Hag, the young midfielder got call-ups to England for Euro 2024, Golden Boy nominations and was a vital part of their FA Cup win in 2023.

However, since Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford, Mainoo has struggled for game time, losing his spot in the England squad, becoming increasingly frustrated.

This season has gotten even worse as the 20-year-old has been told he’s in direct competition with captain Bruno Fernandes for a spot in the starting line-up.

As such, Mainoo asked for a loan move in the summer, which was rejected, and a winter move has been firmly on the cards.

Front-runners for the struggling midfielder have been Napoli, looking to reunite him with former teammates Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund in January.

However, Sky Sports, as reported by Area Napoli, have announced it’s no longer on the cards, as Napoli are retracting their interest in the 20-year-old.

Sky Sports journalist Luca Marchetti explained: “Unfortunately, the time isn’t right to bring Kobbie Mainoo to Italy before January to expedite his transfer as Napoli would have liked.”

He continued: “Niclas Fullkrug is already in Italy to sign fo AC Milan, for Mainoo too the situation should have been resolved now, before Christmas.

“Manchester United refused to do so, Napoli wanted to, but no agreement was reached.”

As such, a move for Mainoo once again looks unlikely, with United determined to keep him despite his limited involvement.

Right now, the former England international has suffered a calf-injury rulling him out of action.

However, if he can return to fitness before Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo could have a chance to redeem himself under Ruben Amorim.