Kobbie Mainoo has responded to recent comments from Rúben Amorim after the Manchester United midfielder fell in the pecking order.
Kobbie Mainoo broke into Manchester United’s first team under Erik ten Hag, making his Premier League debut in November 2023.
He made an immediate impression with a standout display against Everton and soon became a regular midfield partner for Casemiro.
His breakthrough season ended in style, as he scored the decisive goal in the FA Cup final before going on to start for England in their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
Since Rúben Amorim took charge at Old Trafford, however, the 20-year-old has found game time harder to secure. Frustrated with his situation, he pushed for a loan move in the summer, but the club refused to sanction it.
Amorim has challenged Mainoo to do better
Mainoo is yet to start a Premier League fixture for United this season, with his only minutes in the competition coming off the bench. His one start so far has been in the Carabao Cup, with a 2-2 draw against Grimsby Town resulting in United being knocked out on penalties.
Amorim has been asked many times about Mainoo and the player’s continued lack of involvement, and was recently asked what he has demanded of the midfielder to regain his starting spot at United.
“I believe in him a lot,” Amorim told reporters. “He is a top player. But some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done [a complete player]. I think he can do so much better.
“For some guys [talent] is enough, but for him it is not. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie and that’s it.”
Amorim’s words are not new. The head coach has stated on multiple occasions that he believes Mainoo needs to improve the defensive aspect of his game to meet the expectations of playing in the midfield.
Mainoo desperate to regain his starting spot
Amid Amorim’s continued words, the Manchester Evening News have reported that Mainoo is “desperate” to regain his starting spot at Old Trafford, and is determined to overcome his current predicament.
Amid his current secondary role, Mainoo is working hard at Carrington, United’s current training base, and is doing everything he can to impress the head coach and earn a starting spot.
Privately, Mainoo also worked with a private coach during the recent international break to continue improving his skills, and has hired a new private chef in an attempt to improve his game.
With Casemiro suspended for the upcoming tie against Brentford, Mainoo may finally be afforded his first Premier League start of the season.
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