Newcastle Eye Mainoo as January Option
Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United continues to generate debate, with Newcastle United reported to be keeping a close watch on the midfielder’s situation. According to talkSPORT, Eddie Howe is a strong admirer of the 20-year-old and is weighing up whether to test United’s stance when the January transfer window opens. The Magpies, who are juggling the added pressure of Champions League commitments this season, view Mainoo as a potential reinforcement who could add depth and energy to their squad.
Earlier this week, Fabrizio Romano reported that the player might again request an exit in the winter market if his opportunities under Ruben Amorim remain limited. Mainoo had already sought a loan move during the final stages of the summer window after failing to feature in United’s opening two fixtures. His approach was rejected by the board, who made it clear that he should remain and fight for a place in the senior setup.
Opportunities have been sporadic since then. He replaced Mason Mount at half-time against Burnley before coming off the bench in the Manchester derby, amounting to 73 minutes of action in the league so far. With Amorim viewing him primarily as competition for Bruno Fernandes, a starting berth remains difficult to secure in a team playing only once per week. A possible switch to St. James’ Park could therefore prove tempting, offering both domestic minutes and valuable Champions League exposure.
United’s own campaign has not eased the frustration. Their early elimination from the Carabao Cup has left them with only the league and FA Cup to contest, reducing the number of fixtures in which fringe players might be rotated. Mainoo’s determination to pursue more regular football looks set to dominate discussions again as winter approaches.
Martinez Nearing Long-Awaited Return
United have at least been handed a boost on the injury front, with Lisandro Martinez pictured back on the training pitches at Carrington. The Argentine defender has been absent since February after sustaining a serious cruciate ligament injury in a defeat to Crystal Palace, ending his season prematurely.
Since joining the club from Ajax in 2022, Martinez has built a reputation as one of United’s most influential defenders, but persistent setbacks have disrupted his progress. Transfermarkt records show that he has missed 76 games through injury while managing 91 appearances in all competitions. Despite that record, his presence on the pitch is considered vital, and once fully fit he is expected to reclaim his place in the starting XI.
Journalist Rich Fay reported that the centre-half has returned to grass training as part of his recovery programme and highlighted how sorely his leadership has been missed. Martinez, who was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, will also be motivated by the chance to impress national coach Lionel Scaloni ahead of next summer’s tournament.
The challenge, however, lies in match rhythm. With United playing only once per week, Martinez may find it difficult to immediately showcase his sharpness. Still, his comeback offers a rare positive for Amorim as he seeks to stabilise a side struggling for consistency.
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