Mainoo must fight for His spot, Says United Boss Amorim

Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United appears increasingly uncertain, with manager Ruben Amorim admitting the 20-year-old midfielder is currently competing with club captain Bruno Fernandes for a place in the starting XI.

Mainoo, who made his breakthrough last season and earned an England call-up, has yet to feature in United’s opening games this season.

He was left out of the matchday squad for both the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal on opening day and Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Fulham.

At Craven Cottage, Amorim overlooked Mainoo once again, even as United pushed for a winner after Emile Smith Rowe equalised following a Rodrigo Muniz own-goal.

Rather than turning to Mainoo, Amorim chose to reshuffle his midfield. Casemiro was replaced by new signing Benjamin Sesko, prompting Mason Mount who had started as a false nine to drop deeper.

Mount was later substituted for Manuel Ugarte, as Amorim opted for fresh legs and defensive stability over midfield experimentation.

As United pressed for a late goal, Amorim introduced defenders Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven, further signalling that Mainoo is currently on the fringes.

ALSO READ : FG shuts down 22 illegal Colleges of Education

Despite Bruno Fernandes missing a first-half penalty, his role in the team remains unquestioned.

Mainoo’s best shot at minutes appears to be the upcoming League Cup fixture against Grimsby Town.

“He is fighting for the position now with Bruno,” Amorim said post-match. “I changed two midfielders. I like Mason Mount there because we wanted to score a goal.

Then when I changed again, I felt the team needed to return to one holding midfielder. So Mainoo just needs to fight for the position with Bruno in training. Like it should be at Manchester United.”

Mainoo’s situation highlights the challenge young talents face under Amorim, who seems intent on relying on experience and attacking flexibility as United aim to bounce back from a slow start to the season.