Ruben Amorim outcast backed to force Manchester United January exit

Ruben Amorim prefers to pair Bruno Fernandes with others, leaving Mainoo in the shadows. With Bruno in sparkling form and leading the team with goals and assists, Mainoo now finds few opportunities. Jones hinted that by Christmas, if things do not change, the midfielder might try to push for another loan option.

“Kobbie is a player that I really, really admire. I loved watching him come into the team, and I remember his performance at Everton away, his first start. He absolutely bossed the game; he really dictated it. He was terrific that night; it was a mature performance, and he carried on that season. He did really well. Played in a lot of games.

“It just looks like, at the moment, he’s out of favour. The manager’s already come out and stated that he’s not going to be playing with Bruno. It’s going to be him or the other and you’re not going to dislodge Bruno in the form that he’s in and the way that he carries the team at times with his assists and goals.

“So, he’s going to find it difficult for games, and United aren’t in any European competitions this season. So, there’s no other competition that he might have got some game time in. Time will tell, but I think by Christmas and January time, if he’s not had the game time that he’ll like, then I’m sure he’ll be trying to force a loan move.”

Via: Stadium Astro (h/t Metro)

United must act before it’s too late:

The thought of losing Mainoo frustrates fans who see him as central to United’s future. Amorim is trying to rebuild the club, and United will appear reckless if they let a talent like this fade into obscurity. Earlier reports revealed that United will only let Mainoo leave if they get a replacement for him. That approach may seem logical, but it risks making the player impatient if his role does not expand soon.

There is a tactical issue. Amorim can solve this with small adjustments. If Amorim uses a three-man midfield and gives Mainoo the freedom of a number eight, it could unlock his strengths and give United balance. If United truly want to keep him, they must promise regular football and prove it with actions, not words. Otherwise, with clubs like Bayern Munich, Napoli, Chelsea, and Tottenham monitoring him, United will no doubt lose him.