Manchester United are “showing caution” over fan-favourite star, fans may be conflicted

Manchester United are reportedly “showing caution” over a fan-favourite star, and fans may be conflicted about the decision.

The Reds have had a mixed start to the season, winning just two of their opening five Premier League outings.

There is still a lot of football to be played across the rest of the season and it appears that United are looking to protect one of their biggest assets.

United showing caution over Mainoo’s game-time

According to a new report from GiveMeSport, United chiefs are seriously monitoring Kobbie Mainoo’s game time and are considering resting the teenager in the upcoming weeks.

The report explained that new midfield signing Manuel Ugarte will help allow Erik ten Hag to rest Mainoo, who did not play a single minute in the Carabao Cup against Barnsley before returning to the lineup against Crystal Palace.

It was added that United are cautious over the amount of games Mainoo would be expected to play and want to ensure they keep him fresh through regular rotation.

Mainoo was a regular starter for United last term despite only making his full Premier League debut in November. He also became a starter for England at Euro 2024.

Fans may be conflicted over decision

Many fans have pointed out that Mainoo could do with some rest after seemingly playing non-stop for the last ten months.

However, for some, it would seem strange to rotate out one of your best players–which is what Mainoo is at United despite still being a teenager.

Ultimately, it will be the correct call if United decide to limit Mainoo’s minutes in the coming weeks and months. His long-term potential is too great to overwork him in his first year of professional football.

He will still have a key role for Ten Hag’s side no matter what, but Ten Hag may start looking at games on the calendar and assessing where he can afford to rest the 19-year-old.

Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is released every Thursday at 6 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.