Gary Lineker has explained why he is shocked at a ‘baffling’ decision from Ruben Amorim at Manchester United this season.
After four games, Manchester United have had their worst start to a Premier League campaign since the 1992/93 season.
In that year, the Reds managed to claw their way back and win their first of 13 Premier League titles but that is simply impossible this term.
Defeats against Manchester City and Arsenal, a draw against Fulham and victory over Burnley leave the Reds on four points so far. They were also knocked out of the Carabao Cup to Grimsby Town.
Ruben Amorim’s struggles are obvious and he remains stubborn in how he wants his team to play, and some of his selections in the team have been criticised.
Lineker shocked by ‘baffling’ Amorim selection decision
Once again against City, the United boss opted to leave Kobbie Mainoo out of the team and instead started with Manuel Ugarte alongside Bruno Fernandes in the middle.
Mainoo is yet to start a Premier League game this season and his request to leave the club on loan was rejected in the final days of the summer transfer window.
Gary Lineker has admitted his shock and concern over the way Amorim is handling the 20-year-old, who had a positive impact when he was substituted in the derby.
“It really worries me the way Kobbie Mainoo is being kind of almost dismissed,” said Lineker on The Rest Is Football podcast.
“Such an incredible young talent, a local boy as well, doing really well. I thought when he came on, he did really quite well.
“I don’t get it. I don’t know if there’s something we don’t know about but it’s slightly baffling to me.”
Amorim needs to find midfield solution with or without Mainoo
Before the game against City, Amorim explained different things that he wants to see from Mainoo and how he thinks there are players in the team who can set the tempo now.
But there aren’t, and the midfield options at Old Trafford are extremely questionable. Ugarte is a workhorse who fouls and tries to interrupt other teams’ momentum. He is a mid-table player, and that is being kind.
Mainoo’s ability on the ball is missing in the United midfield. They only have two players in there in possession and Fernandes should not be having to try and dictate play in United’s own third.
With or without the 20-year-old Academy graduate in the team, Amorim must find a solution to his midfield problems because they’re so clear.
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