Rio Ferdinand backs Paul Scholes’ view on Kobbie Mainoo

Rio Ferdinand believes Kobbie Mainoo must leave Manchester United

Mainoo’s future could be decided as early as next month, with frustration growing over his limited role. A loan move is increasingly likely, and Ferdinand used his Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel to voice full agreement with Scholes and Butt.

“I saw them talking about it the other day, and I agree with them,” Ferdinand said. “If I put myself in Kobbie Mainoo’s shoes, I’m out of there. I have to go. He was playing for England, but he’s wasted 18 months of his career now at Manchester United.”

Ferdinand believes Mainoo stayed “six months longer than he should have,” emphasising that Amorim has shown no indication he intends to give the 20-year-old a meaningful role. “If I was him, the manager isn’t going to start playing me now… Let’s be honest, I’m surplus to requirements, so get me out of here.”

Manchester United should sanction a January loan for Mainoo

United were right to keep Mainoo in the summer, with Amorim publicly calling him an important part of his plans. But those words haven’t aligned with his actions. Mainoo has been used almost exclusively as a late cameo option, often receiving fewer than 10 minutes.

For a player of his quality and ambition, the situation has become untenable. With the World Cup on the horizon, Mainoo needs consistent minutes under a coach who values him — something he is unlikely to find at Old Trafford right now.

A January loan, supported by United signing a replacement midfielder, is the best path forward for both the club and the player. Mainoo deserves the chance to rebuild momentum, earn his place with England, and continue developing at the level his talent warrants.