Kobbie Mainoo faces a battle for minutes at Manchester United as coach Ruben Amorim insists he compete with Bruno Fernandes. Image: Ben Roberts/Danehouse/Getty Images via The Guardian.
(The Post News)– Manchester United have turned down Kobbie Mainoo’s request to leave on loan, telling the academy graduate they want him to stay and compete for his spot in the team.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who played the full match in United’s EFL Cup penalty shootout defeat to Grimsby, has been left frustrated after being an unused substitute in both of the club’s opening Premier League fixtures. Head coach Ruben Amorim has been clear that Mainoo is in direct competition with captain Bruno Fernandes for the advanced midfield role, a battle that leaves the youngster with limited opportunities.
Mainoo’s contract runs until 2027, but talks over an extension have stalled. He is not pushing for a permanent move, but he is worried about the lack of league minutes, especially with United not involved in European competition this season. Amorim believes competition will sharpen his squad and has praised Mainoor’s passing range and quick feet. Yet for the England international, who rose rapidly under Erik ten Hag and even started the Euro 2024 final, the fear is that his development could stall on the bench.
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