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Kobbie Mainoo Facing Uncertain Role as Amorim Backs Bruno Fernandes

Posted : 25 August 2025

Kobbie Mainoo’s immediate future at Manchester United looks uncertain after manager Ruben Amorim admitted the young midfielder is locked in direct competition with captain Bruno Fernandes for a starting role.

 

The 20-year-old, who broke into England’s senior squad earlier this year, has not played a single minute so far this season. He was left out of the matchday plans for both the opening-day defeat to Arsenal and Sunday’s 1-1 draw away at Fulham.

 

At Craven Cottage, Amorim opted against turning to Mainoo as United pushed for a late winner. After Emile Smith Rowe cancelled out Rodrigo Muniz’s own goal, the Portuguese coach chose to make attacking and defensive switches instead. Casemiro was withdrawn for new striker Benjamin Sesko, which forced Mason Mount to drop deeper into midfield. Later, Mount himself was replaced by Manuel Ugarte, while defenders Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven were introduced as United chased the game.

 

Fernandes, who missed a first-half penalty, remains a guaranteed starter despite his struggles in front of goal. Mainoo, by contrast, may have to settle for a League Cup outing against Grimsby Town in midweek as his best chance of action in the short term.

 

Speaking after the draw, Amorim explained his thinking:
“He is fighting for the position now with Bruno. I changed two midfielders today. I like Mason Mount there because we wanted to score, and later I felt the team needed one holding midfielder. So, Kobbie has to fight for the position with Bruno in training. That’s how it should be at Manchester United.”

 

Amorim also highlighted the progress of the squad as a whole, stressing that team spirit and tactical balance are now stronger than last season. For Mainoo, however, the challenge of breaking into United’s midfield looks as difficult as ever.

 

 

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