- Barcelona are set to move fast for a Manchester United star as Gavi faces a long-term injury setback
- With limited game time and a World Cup year approaching, young Man United midfielder eyes a surprise January switch
- A Ghanaian sports writer based in the UK has also weighed in on Kobbie Mainoo’s future, offering an insighful take
FC Barcelona are reportedly considering a Manchester United star as an emergency signing following the devastating injury to midfielder Gavi, aiming to strengthen their squad amid this unexpected setback.
The 2024/25 La Liga champions confirmed on Tuesday, September 23, that the Spanish international would be out for up to five months following a knee injury.
Source: Getty Images
The 21-year-old, who played in the club’s opening two matches of the season, sustained the setback to his right knee during a training session in August of this year.
Gavi’s latest injury comes on the heels of his previous anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, an injury that sidelined him for the majority of the 2023 season.
The issue disrupted his momentum, forcing him to undergo an extensive rehabilitation process before attempting a return to top-level action.
Barcelona to sign Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo
Now, in a move to address the gap left by Gavi’s unfortunate injury, Barcelona are reportedly preparing an emergency plan to bring in Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo on a loan deal during the upcoming January transfer window.
The Catalan giants are said to be keen on bolstering their midfield options quickly, hoping that Mainoo’s energy, versatility, and creativity can provide the spark they desperately need while Gavi recovers.
Meanwhile, there is another Manchester United player on loan at the La Liga champions – Marcus Rashford, who arrived in Spain ahead of the 2025/26 La Liga campaign.
According to Transfermarkt, the 2017 Europa League winner racked up a brace for Hansi Flick’s team during their recent Champions League away victory at Newcastle United.
According to Fichajes, the La Liga champions may include an option to buy in any potential loan deal for Kobbie Mainoo, with discussions between Barcelona and Manchester United expected to potentially accelerate in the coming weeks.
Source: Getty Images
Kobbie Mainoo could leave Manchester United
The English international reportedly sought a loan move away from Manchester United late in the summer transfer window after finding himself on the fringes during the early stages of the 2025-26 season.
With a World Cup year looming, the 20-year-old midfielder is reportedly growing increasingly anxious over his limited game time, sparking speculation about his future.
So far this season, Kobbie Mainoo has managed just 76 minutes of Premier League action, including a brief three-minute cameo against Chelsea, highlighting his frustration over lack of opportunities.
Sources suggest he could push for another move in January, though Manchester United are expected to resist unless a suitable replacement is secured mid-season.
UK-based sports writer advises Kobbie Mainoo
Concurrently, in a chat with YEN.com.gh, Ghanaian sports writer Bruno Michael based in the UK weighed in on Mainoo’s situation, saying:
“For a young talent like Kobbie, regular minutes on the pitch are far more important than joining a big-name club just to sit on the bench. Moving to a team where he can play consistently would do wonders for his development and World Cup prospects.”
Kobbie Mainoo’s message to Erik ten Hag
Earlier, YEN.com.gh highlighted Kobbie Mainoo’s heartfelt message to Erik ten Hag following the former Manchester United manager’s sacking in October 2024.
The note reportedly reflected Mainoo’s admiration for Ten Hag’s guidance and the impact he had on his early career.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
