Manchester United’s long-standing tradition of including academy graduates in matchday squads could be under threat as the January transfer window approaches.

Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has struggled for consistent starts this season. After being an unused substitute in the opening two Premier League games, Mainoo has featured only from the bench and is yet to make a league start. His only start this season came in the Carabao Cup defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town in August.

Mainoo had considered a loan move during the summer window due to his desire for more game time. United opted to keep him, but continued limited minutes have reignited transfer rumours with Napoli and other clubs monitoring his situation ahead of January.

Reports indicate that Manchester United will hold talks with both Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee about their futures as the transfer window approaches. Both players are said to be concerned about their lack of opportunities.

The outcome of those talks could influence United’s decisions in January. If Mainoo is not included in future squads, the club’s historic run of having an academy graduate involved in every matchday squad since October 1937 could come to an end. That streak, which has lasted 87 years, is a significant part of the club’s identity.

Ruben Amorim has previously spoken about the importance of protecting the club’s tradition of promoting youth. However, a mixed start to the season has put additional pressure on him, and the development of young players like Mainoo may become another point of scrutiny.