Manchester United have already completed their first two matches of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, but the results so far have been far from ideal for new manager Ruben Amorim.
In their opening fixture, the Red Devils locked horns with Arsenal in a tense clash that ended in disappointment. Despite a resilient display, United slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat against their London rivals.
The second week brought another difficult challenge as United traveled to Craven Cottage to face Fulham. It was a tightly contested battle, yet United were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw. With only a single point collected from a possible six, Amorim’s era at Old Trafford has had a rather shaky beginning.
This early setback has raised questions about the team’s consistency and tactical execution. While Amorim’s arrival was expected to inject a new philosophy and energy into the squad, the performances so far have not fully lived up to expectations.
Spotlight on Kobbie Mainoo’s Situation
Amidst the struggles on the pitch, one of the biggest talking points surrounding Manchester United has been the absence of highly-rated youngster Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old midfielder, regarded as one of the brightest prospects to emerge from United’s academy in recent years, has yet to make a single appearance this season, despite being included in the matchday squads for both games.
This has puzzled many fans and pundits, who expected Mainoo to play a bigger role under Amorim. His exclusion from the lineup sparked curiosity about the reasoning behind the coach’s decision.
Amorim Explains Why Mainoo Hasn’t Played
Speaking during a press conference after the 1-1 draw against Fulham, Ruben Amorim directly addressed the issue when asked about Mainoo’s absence.
The Portuguese coach explained that Mainoo’s natural position overlaps with that of club captain Bruno Fernandes. For Amorim, Fernandes remains the priority in that role, meaning Mainoo has to wait for his chance.
“No, it’s simply because he is fighting for the same position as Bruno,” Amorim stated, as quoted by Goal. “At this moment, Bruno is essential for us in that area of the pitch.”
Amorim also shed light on his in-game decisions against Fulham, particularly why he opted for Mason Mount when making changes in midfield.
“I decided to use Mason Mount because we needed more attacking presence and a better chance to score,” Amorim explained. “Later in the match, I replaced him to give the team more balance with a holding midfielder.”
This tactical reasoning shows Amorim’s preference for players with immediate attacking output, which currently puts Mainoo behind more experienced teammates in the pecking order.
Amorim’s Challenge to Mainoo
Despite his lack of minutes so far, Amorim was keen to stress that Mainoo’s opportunity will come—provided he proves himself in training.
The manager made it clear that at a club the size of Manchester United, nothing is handed to players. Competition is fierce, and youngsters must earn their place by outperforming established names on the training ground.
“He just needs to keep working hard and fighting for that position in training, especially against Bruno,” Amorim said firmly. “That’s the reality of playing for Manchester United.”
Amorim also expressed his belief that these experiences can be invaluable for a player as young as Mainoo. Facing tough competition and learning patience could help shape his mentality and resilience, qualities necessary for a long-term career at the top level.
Looking Ahead for Manchester United and Mainoo
For now, the question remains whether Mainoo will break into Amorim’s plans in the coming weeks. With United still seeking stability and creativity in midfield, the youngster could be called upon sooner rather than later, particularly if injuries or tactical shifts open the door.
At just 20 years old, Mainoo has time on his side. Amorim’s insistence that he “earn his chance” may be tough, but it also underlines the seriousness with which the coach is building competition within the squad.
Manchester United fans will be eager to see if the academy graduate can rise to the challenge and eventually carve out his spot alongside or even ahead of the team’s established stars. For now, all eyes will be on how Amorim balances experience and youth as he tries to guide United back into the Premier League title race.
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