Paul Scholes does not usually speak just to fill space, which is why his recent comments about Kobbie Mainoo have caused such a stir. The former Manchester United midfielder admitted he is genuinely confused by how the young midfielder has gone from being a breakout star to a near afterthought. From Scholes’ point of view, this is not a normal dip in form. It feels like a situation that has drifted in the wrong direction.
That is why his suggestion carried weight. If Chelsea are serious, Scholes believes Mainoo should think hard about his future.
FROM RISING STAR TO LIMITED ROLE AT UNITED
Last season, Mainoo looked like one of the few clear positives at Old Trafford. He played with composure and maturity that stood out immediately. There was no panic in his game. No sense that he was overawed by the level. That calmness earned him an England debut and praise from across the football world.
At the time, it felt like United had finally produced another midfielder from their own academy who could last. Someone to build around. Someone to trust.
This season has told a different story.
Mainoo has not started a Premier League game. His minutes have been scattered and brief. Some weeks, he does not play at all. When he does, it is often late in matches when little can be changed. That pattern is difficult to explain, especially when United’s midfield has struggled for control and clarity.
WHY SCHOLES IS UNCOMFORTABLE WATCHING THIS
Scholes is not questioning Mainoo’s ability. If anything, he is questioning the situation around him. Young midfielders need rhythm. They need mistakes. They need responsibility. Sitting on the bench removes all three.
This is where confidence quietly erodes. It does not happen overnight. It happens in small moments. One game missed. Then another. Then a role that feels less important. Scholes has seen that cycle before, both as a player and as an observer.
That is what worries him. Not one bad decision, but a slow loss of momentum.
THE CHELSEA ANGLE CHANGES THE TONE
Chelsea’s reported interest shifts the conversation. This is no longer just about patience at United. It is about alternatives. Chelsea have built a reputation for backing young players, sometimes after they feel stuck elsewhere.
Supporters on both sides are split. Some United fans want Mainoo to stay and fight. They see leaving as giving up too soon. Others believe the club is already moving on without saying it out loud.
Chelsea fans see opportunity. They see a midfielder who fits their age profile and style. A player who could grow with regular football rather than waiting for chances.
WHAT UNITED RISK LOSING
If Mainoo leaves, United lose more than a squad option. They lose a home-grown player who looked capable of becoming a long-term solution. That raises uncomfortable questions about pathway and trust.
For Mainoo, the choice is simpler but harder. Stay and hope. Or move and play.
Neither option is easy. But time does not wait for young players.
AUTHOR’S INSIGHT
Scholes’ comments may feel harsh, but they come from experience. Talent without minutes fades quickly. Mainoo needs football, not promises. Whether that comes at Manchester United or elsewhere will define the most important years of his career.
As featured on ManUNews.com
