Mainoo returns to training as Man Utd assesses midfield options

Darren Fletcher confirmed Kobbie Mainoo has returned to training and said he will assess the midfielder before deciding on the squad for the Burnley match; reports indicate Napoli’s belief they can sign Mainoo in this window is receding.

Darren Fletcher confirmed on Tuesday that Kobbie Mainoo has returned to training and that he will assess the midfielder before deciding whether to include him in the squad for the upcoming Burnley match. The club’s recent coaching change has brought attention to how players from United’s academy have been used, and some observers noted an ironic juxtaposition between Ruben Amorim’s exit and Mainoo’s return. Reports also say interest from Napoli in signing the 20-year-old in this window is starting to fade. There are no reported talks planned between Mainoo and Manchester United’s hierarchy. Key facts: - Darren Fletcher confirmed Kobbie Mainoo has returned to training. - Ruben Amorim’s treatment of Mainoo was seen as a sign of the former coach’s relationship with the academy; Amorim’s exit and Mainoo’s return are reported as separate events. - Reports say Napoli’s belief they could sign Mainoo in this transfer window is receding. - There are no reported ongoing talks between Mainoo and Manchester United’s hierarchy. - Fletcher stated he would assess Mainoo before deciding on the squad for the Burnley match. - If Fletcher or his successor uses a four-at-the-back system, that formation would create additional midfield space for Mainoo to compete for playing time. Summary: Mainoo’s return to training creates an immediate selection question ahead of the Burnley fixture, with Fletcher set to evaluate him before naming the squad. Longer-term outcomes for playing time and any transfer interest remain undetermined at this time.