Manchester United fans recently faced shocking news about the club being open to offers for Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.
While Garnacho’s potential sale was somewhat understandable since he joined from Atletico Madrid at 16, the possibility of selling Kobbie sent fans into an uproar. Many viewed it as a breaking point for Ineos ownership if it went through.
Since then, Ruben Amorim has clarified Mainoo’s importance to the squad. Now, Ian Wright and Roy Keane have weighed in with their opinions, which might not sit well with some fans, especially regarding Mainoo.
Roy Keane and Ian Wright on Man Utd-Kobbie Mainoo situation
The rumors around Kobbie and Garnacho intensified because, as academy players, any fees from their sales would count as pure profit for the PSR books.
Both players are on reasonable wages and have high potential, making them attractive targets for other clubs.
Keane, however, questioned the notion that academy players should never be sold. Speaking on the Overlap, he said, “Why not sell if a good offer comes? Man City and Liverpool sell academy players all the time.”
Wright added that the manager’s view is what matters most. He said, “If Ruben Amorim believes Kobbie doesn’t fit his style, then they’ll move him on, academy product or not.”
Keane agreed and pointed out that Mainoo still has a lot to prove and shouldn’t be untouchable just because he’s from the academy.
Ruben Amorim has already given Mainoo verdict
Keane and Wright made valid points, suggesting being an academy player alone shouldn’t protect someone from being sold. But Mainoo offers more than just his academy status.
Even without that connection, his talent and potential should make him a player the club only considers selling for an extraordinary offer.
The reports about the club being “open to offers” for Mainoo might have been unnecessary, sparking public scrutiny when the manager clearly values him.
Amorim has already expressed his high regard for Kobbie and wants to continue improving him. Kobbie’s consistent role alongside Manuel Ugarte in midfield shows his growing importance under the new manager, securing his place in the team for now.
