Why Kobbie Mainoo came off at half-time during Man United’s loss vs Nottingham Forest

Kobbie Mainoo was replaced at half-time during Manchester United’s 2-1 loss against Nottingham Forest at The City Ground.

United were well beaten by Nuno Espírito Santo’s team despite the scoreline being close.

Marcus Rashford’s equalising goal appeared to give Erik ten Hag’s side confidence shortly before the host’s lead was restored.

It was 0-0 at half-time, and United had been poor during the opening 45 minutes. Ten Hag decided to make a change at the break.

Surprisingly, he opted to bring off Kobbie Mainoo and put Scott McTominay at the base of the midfield, with Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen ahead of the Scotsman.

Sky Sports commentary explained that the change from the Dutch manager was described as a ‘tactical’ one, rather than Mainoo picking up a knock.

However, the tactical reasoning behind that move was hard to see, as United’s midfield were left wide open throughout the entire second half.

McTominay’s best role is further forward, displayed through his six goals so far this term, and not as the deepest midfielder.

He does not only find issues progressing the ball himself in that role, but also tracking runs and holding his position when the opposition are attacking.

And that’s exactly how both Forest goals came about. The opener had Nicolás Domínguez in acres of space for a cutback just inside United’s box.

The eventual winner saw McTominay run wide to try and double-team Anthony Elanga, who then had a simple pass to Morgan Gibbs-White on the edge of the box. The Forest midfielder made no mistake with his finish.

McTominay was moved into the most advanced midfield role in the closing stages of the game to try and grab an equaliser.

After the game, Ten Hag confirmed that he has no regrets over the tactical move which seemingly failed and cost the team.