Amorim tells Mainoo he must compete with Fernandes for Man Utd spot

Kobbie Mainoo is currently facing a difficult challenge at Manchester United as new manager Ruben Amorim has made it clear that the young midfielder will only break into the starting lineup by displacing Bruno Fernandes.

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The 20 year old England international has not played in United’s first two matches of the season. He was overlooked in the opening day loss to Arsenal and again during the 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Amorim instead opted to make several other changes as United pushed for a winner in the second half. Casemiro was replaced by Benjamin Sesko, which forced Mason Mount to drop deeper into midfield. Later, Mount was substituted for Manuel Ugarte, while Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven were also brought on to strengthen the team.

Throughout these changes Mainoo remained unused. Fernandes meanwhile continued to play despite missing a first half penalty. His place in the team appears secure for now and Amorim hinted that Mainoo’s immediate opportunity is most likely to come in the upcoming League Cup tie against Grimsby.

Ruben Amorim has explained his decision by stressing the level of competition expected at Manchester United. He made it clear that Mainoo must directly compete with Bruno Fernandes, who is the captain and a guaranteed starter.

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Amorim said he made tactical substitutions against Fulham with the focus on scoring, which is why Mason Mount was played in midfield before eventually being replaced. According to Amorim, the team needed balance between creativity and a holding midfielder, and this influenced his in game decisions.

Mainoo’s absence was therefore not about his talent but about competition for places. The coach stated that the midfielder will have to work in training and show that he can take Fernandes’ role if he wants consistent minutes in the first team.

For now, Amorim suggested that the most realistic chance for Mainoo to feature will come in cup matches where rotation is more likely. This situation leaves Mainoo with an uphill battle to gain regular playing time but Amorim insists that such competition is healthy and reflects the high standards expected at a club like Manchester United.

The message is clear that Mainoo must prove himself against one of the team’s most influential players.