Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has offered a candid explanation for Kobbie Mainoo’s limited game time, as speculation mounts over the midfielder’s future. Despite blocking Mainoo’s summer exit, the Portuguese coach admits he understands the young star’s frustration and hints that more players could push for moves in January.
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Mainoo’s Struggles Continue Amid World Cup Ambitions
After a breakthrough campaign in 2024/25 that saw Mainoo establish himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents, expectations were high for his continued rise. However, the 20-year-old has found himself on the fringes of Amorim’s plans this season, recording just 138 minutes of Premier League football across seven appearances.
Mainoo had reportedly sought a loan move during the summer transfer window to gain consistent playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but United refused to sanction his departure. Now, with Napoli, Newcastle, and West Ham all monitoring his situation, the England international is believed to be reconsidering his future at Old Trafford.
Amorim: “Lack of European Football Has Limited Rotation”
Addressing Mainoo’s limited involvement, Amorim pointed to a lack of European competition as a key factor in restricting game time for squad players.
“We need to be in Europe because of everything,” Amorim explained. “It’s hard to have a very strong squad when we only play once a week. For me to give Mainoo more minutes, I’d have to take someone else out who’s playing regularly. When you have European games, you can rotate and manage better. With one game per week, it’s really hard.”
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The United boss added that his team is using the extra time between matches to improve tactically but reiterated that returning to European football remains their ultimate target.
“We’re preparing for the future. The goal doesn’t change — we have to get back to Europe. Finishing in the top four will be difficult, but we’ll keep pushing and focus on the next match.”
Improved Form Eases Pressure on Amorim
After a disastrous start that had Amorim’s job under threat, Manchester United’s recent form has sparked optimism. The Red Devils finished 15th last season and endured a humiliating Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. A sluggish start to the new campaign, including a Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town, only deepened concerns.
However, a run of three consecutive league wins in October — the first such streak under Amorim — has seen United climb the table and restore some stability. The manager’s tactical adjustments and calm leadership have begun to pay off, though questions remain about squad balance and attacking depth.
Amorim has been candid about the challenges of managing a rebuilding squad, especially after heavy investment since his arrival.
Since joining the club, United have spent nearly £250 million ($328 million) on new players, including Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško. Despite that, depth issues persist — and several fringe stars are now seeking more playing opportunities.
Transfer Window Looms: Departures and Reinforcements Expected
Looking ahead to January, Amorim hinted at potential changes within the squad, acknowledging that certain players could seek exits — while also keeping the door open for fresh arrivals.
“A lot can happen,” the Portuguese coach said. “Some players who aren’t playing will want to leave — especially with the World Cup coming up. My job is to manage that. Of course, we’re thinking about improving the team, and when the window opens, we’ll see what’s possible.”
Among those linked with moves away is Joshua Zirkzee, who has struggled for minutes since joining from Bologna in 2024. Meanwhile, Amorim insisted that any incoming transfers will be made with long-term planning in mind rather than short-term fixes.
“We want to bring in players who have a future at Manchester United,” Amorim added. “We’re not just buying for now — we’re building a foundation for years to come.”
What’s Next for Mainoo and Amorim’s United?
For Kobbie Mainoo, the next two months will be crucial. If his playing time doesn’t improve before the January transfer window, a loan or permanent move could become inevitable. As Amorim strives to balance long-term planning with immediate results, his handling of young talents like Mainoo may define his tenure at Old Trafford.
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