Man Utd news: Kobbie Mainoo contract problem emerges as banned player says sorry

Despite their upturn in form in recent weeks, Manchester United have one or two problems to sort out

Manchester United have had new life breathed into them since Michael Carrick took the reins. Aside from one or two minor stumbles and the occasional nervy spell, the Red Devils have looked like a different side under their former midfielder's guidance.

Previously seemingly destined for a third-successive finish outside the top four, United have thrust themselves firmly back into Champions League contention since Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim on an interim basis in January.

His impact has been so impressive that he has emerged as a genuine contender for the permanent role, with a decision expected come the end of the season. However, his future at Old Trafford is just one of several storylines unfolding. With that in mind, here are the latest headlines surrounding United.

Mainoo contract problem

Kobbie Mainoo is facing what has been described as a "lingering contract problem" that could complicate efforts to extend his stay at the club. The 20-year-old's introduction to senior football has been anything but straightforward.

After bursting onto the scene as the latest gem from the club's academy, Mainoo initially established himself as a key figure in midfield. However, he later found himself on the fringes under Amorim.

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An end-of-season exit looked likely. But the arrival of Carrick brought an immediate change in fortunes, with the interim boss restoring Mainoo to the starting XI. Since then, the midfielder has not only regained regular minutes but has arguably been in the best form of his young career.

Despite his growing influence, Mainoo remains one of the lowest earners in the squad, currently on around £20,000 per week. His existing deal runs until 2027, with the club holding the option of a further 12 months, and talks over an improved contract have been ongoing for some time.

According to the Daily Mail, there had been optimism in January when Mainoo reportedly lowered his wage demands in a bid to reach an agreement. However, Amorim's departure - and Mainoo's resurgence under Carrick - may have shifted the dynamics of negotiations.

With his importance to the team now significantly enhanced, it remains to be seen whether Mainoo will revisit his salary expectations, a move that could prolong discussions. Nevertheless, the England international is understood to be settled and content, and there is growing confidence that he will commit his long-term future to his boyhood club.

Banned player apologises

United youngster Jack Fletcher has apologised for using a homophobic insult during an EFL Trophy match against Barnsley earlier this season. The 18-year-old, who is the son of former Red Devils midfielder and United U18s coach Darren Fletcher, was handed a six-game ban by the FA for the slur.

Fletcher was sent off during the game in question, which took place back in October. He used the offensive term during a heated clash with an opponent, who allegedly made comments about his father and twin brother, Tyler.

It's understood that Fletcher reacted angrily, questioning how the player was so familiar with his background and, in the process, used a homophobic slur. He was subsequently charged by the FA and fined £1,500.

Following the sanction, the teenager said he had not intended to cause offence but acknowledged his wrongdoing and accepted the punishment. "I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment," he said in a statement.

"Despite the fact that I had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult, I completely understand that such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game. I want to be clear that this momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values."

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