Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has offered a tough piece of advice to Kobbie Mainoo amid his struggles under Rúben Amorim.
Kobbie Mainoo, 20, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season and became one of Manchester United’s most exciting Academy graduates in recent years.
But under Rúben Amorim’s new regime, the midfielder has found minutes harder to come by, with the manager opting to use Bruno Fernandes in the central creative role Mainoo often occupied.
Speaking to AceOdds, former United defender Wes Brown expressed his admiration for the youngster’s quality but acknowledged the challenge he faces in breaking into Amorim’s starting side.
“I love Kobbie Mainoo. I love him.” Brown said. “During games this season, I’ve been thinking, he’s not playing again. He’s got such a talent, and you ask any fan and they’ll say they want to see more of him and don’t want him to go anywhere.
“We know how good he can be, but the manager is asking different things of him and has said Bruno is playing in his role. We all know that no one is getting in ahead of Bruno.”
Amorim’s balancing act is a problem
Brown believes Amorim’s management of Mainoo reflects the Portuguese coach’s difficult balancing act between nurturing and emerging talent and maintaining tactical balance.
Fernandes’ leadership and influence have made him undroppable, leaving Amorim to find the right way to integrate Mainoo without disrupting the team’s rhythm.
“No one wants Kobbie to go anywhere, but eventually it does get to a point where he needs to play.” Brown explained. “It will be tough, and I only hope that he and the manager are on good terms. Where the manager is telling him what he needs to do to get back in the team.”
Amorim, known for his high-intensity style, has already demonstrated a willingness to support young players, but Brown believes Mainoo’s situation requires open communication and patience on both sides.
The former United defender said, “Mainoo’s talent is undeniable, but at his age, consistent football is essential to his growth.
“You want to see academy players come through,” Brown added. “And when Kobbie is on the pitch, he brings something different, calmness, maturity and quality in possession.”
Mainoo’s mentality and England ambitions clear
Brown also touched on Mainoo’s international prospects, warning that a lack of regular minutes could hinder his England development, despite his performances already proving he belongs at the highest level.
“To play for England, he will need regular football, so it’s tough right now,” Brown said. “I hope the manager can give him more time. Kobbie has done nothing wrong.”
Mainoo’s maturity beyond his years has already won over teammates and supporters, with many hailing his composure and vision in midfield. Despite his limited appearances this season, Brown believes the teenager’s professionalism and attitude will ensure he remains part of Amorim’s long-term plans at Old Trafford.
Amorim’s track record for developing young players suggests Mainoo’s time will come. For now, Brown insists the focus should remain on patience, trust, and preparation and qualities that both the player and his manager have shown in abundance.
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