Man Utd sources think they know what will happen with Kobbie Mainoo after Ruben Amorim sacking

Add as preferred source on Google

Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with a January exit all season but Ruben Amorim’s sacking at Manchester United could change things.

Throughout the 2025/26 season, Ruben Amorim has preferred to start matches with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in midfield, meaning there have been very limited opportunities for Kobbie Mainoo.

As a result, Mainoo has been linked with Napoli and a loan move away for the second half of the season.

But United’s decision to sack Amorim on Monday morning means that Darren Fletcher has taken interim charge and a return to a 4-3-3 formation is expected.

Mainoo is returning from injury at a perfect time to potentially work his way back into the starting XI.

Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Man United

Last month, Amorim defended Mainoo over his brother’s T-shirt stunt at Old Trafford, and the Portuguese coach always insisted that he wanted to keep the 20-year-old in his first-team plans.

However, the lack of game time was alarming, with Mainoo only playing 212 Premier League minutes in 2025/26 so far.

What do you think of Kobbie Mainoo’s brother wearing a ‘Free Kobbie Mainoo’ t-shirt at Old Trafford?

This is NOT going to help Kobbie Mainoo!

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

According to Team Talk, sources have claimed that Amorim’s sacking will allow Mainoo back into the starting XI at United and make the young midfielder part of the club’s long-term plan.

Mainoo is one of the biggest winners from Amorim’s sacking, but he now has to prove that fans were right to take his corner during his time away from the starting XI.

Kobbie Mainoo could start against Burnley

Interim boss Fletcher is set to speak to the media for the first time on Tuesday afternoon, and there will no doubt be a question asked about his plans for Mainoo.

Provided that Mainoo has returned to full fitness following his injury issue, the 20-year-old can hope to start his first Premier League match of the season on Wednesday.

United travel to Turf Moor to face Burnley, who are currently sitting 19th in the Premier League table.

READ MORE: Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha and Amad send messages to Ruben Amorim following his Man Utd sacking

There will be plenty of interest in the formation that Fletcher chooses to play, as well as his midfield selection.

Fletcher also has both of his sons, Tyler and Jack, available for selection in what is set to be his first game as United head coach.