Manchester, UK – Kobbie Mainoo‘s apparent attempt to appeal directly to manager ruben Amorim regarding his lack of playing time at Manchester United is likely to backfire, potentially prolonging his exile from the first team, sources indicate. The 20-year-old midfielder’s situation has become increasingly precarious under Amorim, despite recent successes with both United and the England national team.
Mainoo’s recent performances – including a goal in United’s 2024 FA Cup final victory over Manchester City and a start in the European Championship final for England – have not translated into regular Premier League starts under Amorim. This disconnect has led to speculation about Mainoo seeking a loan move in the January transfer window to secure consistent game time ahead of the World Cup, which is now just six months away. However, any direct appeal to Amorim is viewed as unlikely to improve his standing, given the manager’s established preference for players who are consistently featuring for their clubs.
The core issue is Amorim’s reluctance to select players who aren’t regularly playing. Despite Mainoo’s “undeniable talent,” he remains an outcast at both club and country, his career stalled while Amorim continues to omit him from the starting lineup.
Currently, the only viable solutions for Mainoo appear to be either Amorim’s departure or united granting his request for a loan. Both scenarios are considered improbable; Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently affirmed his support for Amorim and granted him time to develop the team, and United previously rejected Mainoo’s initial loan request. This leaves Mainoo in a “bleak situation” despite his potential, with no clear path to regular first-team football at Old Trafford.
