Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim was shocked at his side’s performance against Grimsby but there are some key lessons to learn from the defeat.
Pressure was already mounting on Ruben Amorim after taking one point from six in the Premier League, but a 12-11 shootout defeat to Grimsby Town means there is now a spotlight on his future.
Amorim will have regrets from the Grimsby defeat, but he made it clear after the full-time whistle that the “players spoke loudly” with their performance.
Despite the second-half comeback, Amorim refused to watch the shootout, instead spending his time on the bench staring at the ground. United’s charismatic and charming chief found himself lost for words for the first time.
Fans expect that Amorim could resign after the defeat, but he may have one chance to turn things around when Burnley visit Old Trafford.
Bruno Fernandes looks dejected during the penalty shootout during the Carabao Cup match between Grimsby Town and Manchester United at Blundell Park in 2025 in Grimsby, England.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Ruben Amorim found midfield solution during Grimsby chaos
Amorim made changes to his starting lineup at Blundell Park, trying to incorporate a blend of youth and experience.
However, two goals inside 30 minutes to the hosts meant Amorim had to throw any plan out of the window and call on reinforcements.
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Bruno Fernandes came on and sparked a comeback, and it was the first time this season he has played in a midfield pivot alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo was playing for his future against Grimsby, following mass reports this week that he could leave the club this transfer window. The bar is incredibly low, but he was one of United’s better players.
In the second half, Fernandes and Mainoo combined well in midfield and United were finally able to take control of the tie and pin Grimsby back. In the first half, Manuel Ugarte did the complete opposite.
If Amorim does have one game left to try and save his United career, he may have finally solved his midfield conundrum.
Ruben Amorim must reassess Kobbie Mainoo’s competition
Amorim has faced criticism over the lack of game time given to Mainoo this season.
When justifying his absence, Amorim has explained that Mainoo is competing with Fernandes for a spot in midfield. The other midfield position is being fought for by Casemiro and Ugarte.
But Ugarte has started the season terribly, and Amorim needs a mobile midfield. The combination of Mainoo and Fernandes is attacking, but it also gives United the best chance of looking after the ball and creating chances from deep.
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Mainoo cannot be limited to Fernandes’ No.2 – he is capable of playing in a midfield two and is United’s best player when it comes to keeping possession under pressure.
Against Burnley, expect Fernandes and Mainoo to start alongside each other as Amorim’s last throw of the dice.