Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Manchester United is currently in doubt as manager Ruben Amorim has indicated that the midfielder is vying with captain Bruno Fernandes for a spot on the team.
The England international has not yet played this season, missing both the defeat against Arsenal on the opening day and the 1-1 draw with Fulham on Sunday.
The 20-year-old was not selected by Amorim at Craven Cottage, even as United sought a win after Fulham’s Emile Smith Rowe equalized following Rodrigo Muniz’s own-goal that initially put United ahead.
Amorim substituted Casemiro with newcomer striker Benjamin Sesko, moving Mason Mount, who started as a forward, into midfield.
Portuguese manager Amorim then swapped Mount with Manuel Ugarte, later bringing on defenders Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven in pursuit of a victory.
Although Fernandes missed a first-half penalty by shooting over the bar, his status as a regular starter is secure, leaving Mainoo’s immediate prospects limited to a League Cup outing against Grimsby on Wednesday.
“He is competing with Bruno for the position,” Amorim stated. “I rotated two midfielders. I prefer Mason Mount there because we aim to score.”
“When I adjusted, I felt the team needed to revert to a single holding midfielder.
“So, he must compete with Bruno during training. That’s the standard at Manchester United.”
