Kobbie Mainoo, a promising 19-year-old midfielder for Manchester United, is reportedly weighing his future amid growing concerns over his salary situation at Old Trafford. Following a breakout performance since his arrival, the young star is rumored to be eyeing an exit this summer as contract talks between his representatives and the club continue.
Mainoo currently earns a modest £20,000 a week, which has become a point of contention, especially given the higher wages of some of his teammates. Former United goalkeeper Ben Foster voiced his concerns on the Fozcast podcast, saying, "It must really annoy Kobbie Mainoo, because he must be looking around at some of the players that are on crazy wages that are nowhere near as good as him. They don't put in any of the performances that he puts in, and they're earning three, four, five, or even six times the amount he is."
Manchester United, facing a significant decision, could be tempted to sell their homegrown talent if offered around £70 million, with Chelsea previously showing interest in Mainoo. While contract negotiations continue, Foster cautions that Mainoo may not have leverage, as United holds an option for an additional year on his contract.
Simultaneously, Ayden Heaven, another young star at the club, is dealing with his own injury woes. The 18-year-old defender was taken off on a stretcher during United's recent victory over Leicester City on March 16, 2025, sparking concern regarding the team's defensive depth given the injuries already plaguing players like Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire. Heaven joined United from Arsenal in January 2025 and had quickly made a strong impression on the first team.
Fortunately, Heaven reported good news via his Instagram, stating, "Thank you guys for all the support! I have read all your messages, and I'm doing really well and recovering fast." As Heaven recuperates, the team is considering the potential of another standout Academy talent, 17-year-old Godwill Kukonki, who has been highlighted by manager Ruben Amorim.
Amorim, who took over United after Erik ten Hag’s mid-season sacking, is reportedly keen on Kukonki’s development. "If something happened with the first team, they [young players] have to step up and I think he's ready," said Amorim in December 2024. Kukonki's left-footedness, along with his technical aptitude, could be invaluable in Heaven's absence.
As all this unfolds, Rasmus Hojlund, United’s forward, recently expressed his feelings surrounding the club's situation post-Ten Hag's dismissal. "He was doing something good and was a talented coach, but it didn’t work out, and that’s how it is. I'm still very happy to be at Manchester United," he commented during a press interaction, acknowledging the challenges under Amorim's leadership.
Hojlund's own season has seen its struggles, encapsulated by a 21-game goal drought that he only recently broke with a goal against Leicester. He joined Manchester United from Atalanta in August 2023 for a staggering £72 million, and has since netted 24 goals in 82 appearances. The Danish striker has also sought mentorship from club legend Peter Schmeichel, showcasing his determination to adapt to the rigors of life at United.
Amidst the backdrop of managerial change, Hojlund’s mentorship underscores the culture within the team as he navigates the pressures of playing for such a storied club. He elaborated, "Peter helps me occasionally and listens to how I'm feeling – both when things are going well and when things are going badly. It's nice to have someone to spar with on that front."
The struggles at United seem to ripple through its young talents, where their promising beginnings are threatened by financial and injury stresses. With the future of players like Mainoo in limbo and Heaven’s health a focal point, the club finds itself at a crossroads.
As attention turns to the rest of the season, will Manchester United seize upon the emerging talents within its ranks or continue to be ensnared by its current woes? One could only hope that with resilience and strategic maneuvering, the Red Devils may soon rediscover the fortune that once defined their storied legacy.
