Manchester United are at a decisive crossroads as they prepare to undergo significant changes following a season of highs and lows. The appointment of Rúben Amorim has sparked both excitement and skepticism regarding his tactical and squad management decisions. One situation that has come to the forefront is the future of Kobbie Mainoo.
The 20-year-old English midfielder, a product of United’s youth system, shone initially under Erik ten Hag, earning a key role, notably during the FA Cup triumph over Manchester City. However, his development has since been hindered by recurring physical issues and the tactical constraints of Amorim’s new system.
Former player and club stalwart Gary Neville did not mince words about Mainoo’s prospects on the podcast It’s Called Soccer via Youtube. Frustrated by the lack of playing time afforded to the promising youngster, Neville argued that the team should be built around Mainoo rather than considering his sale. His blunt assessment underscores a broader debate about balancing short-term tactics with long-term development at Old Trafford.
Should Manchester United show more trust on Kobbie Mainoo?
“Mainoo, no. That’s a step too far. If we can’t give Kobbie Mainoo a job in that two in midfield… I look at Mainoo and the way he plays football and I think a top club would want him. Why can’t we make him a top player? If he’s one of ours and he’s shown talent. I don’t know what’s gone on there in the last few months. He’s obviously had some injuries which has caused him a problem so he needs to stay fit, but I’d like to think h”e could be one of that two in midfield that Ruben Amorim plays. It’s probably not Casemiro as his partner and it’s probably not [Manuel] Ugarte as his partner, it’s probably someone else in there who is better than those two, if I’m being honest. But we should be building around Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield and not because he’s come through the ranks.”
Kobbie Mainoo represents a rarity in modern football: a combination of technique, maturity, vision, and physicality, all at just 20 years of age. His standout performances at Euro 2024, where he played a key role in helping England reach the final, confirm that his rise is no passing fad. While injuries have hampered parts of his season, evaluating his impact solely based on minutes played would be a mistake. Mainoo’s influence goes beyond the stat sheet, he has already shown he belongs at the highest level.
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In Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, the wing-backs push high, placing greater responsibility on the two central midfielders to dictate the tempo and provide tactical balance. Kobbie Mainoo fits well into that role, but his more offensive-minded profile means he needs a dynamic partner to offer defensive cover and positional discipline. As Gary Neville correctly pointed out, that player is unlikely to be Casemiro or Ugarte, both of whom lack the mobility and adaptability needed to complement Mainoo in this setup.
Yet there’s another perspective to consider: Amorim may be prioritising defensive solidity and international experience, qualities Mainoo, despite his immense promise, does not yet fully offer. Still, selling him now would send a troubling message. For a club that prides itself on its academy and youth development, parting ways with one of its brightest prospects just as he’s ready to break through would represent a loss of identity. Mainoo doesn’t just need playing time, he needs belief. And if given that trust, there’s every reason to believe he will rise to the occasion.