Nicky Butt has given his verdict on Kobbie Mainoo being overlooked by Ruben Amorim, despite Manchester United’s struggles in midfield.
Kobbie Mainoo has become a bit-part player under Ruben Amorim, after emerging from Manchester United’s academy and playing a key role in the FA Cup triumph in 2023.
The 20-year-old has only started one game this season, in the Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town, meaning he has yet to start a game in the Premier League. Although the result didn’t quite go to plan for the Red Devils, Mainoo impressed against the League Two side.
However, Mainoo has been limited to just two substitute appearances in the league this term. They came against Burnley and Man City, but more questions are being asked about his role in the team as a result.
Nicky Butt questions Ruben Amorim’s ‘respect’ for Kobbie Mainoo
Amorim has made several big team selection calls since becoming United’s head coach almost one year ago.
Some of those include getting rid of Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Marcus Rashford.
Another big decision saw Andre Onana join Trabzonspor on loan for the season, following the arrival of Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp.
The majority of these calls were met with positivity from United fans, but the treatment of Mainoo has been a cause of concern.
Former United midfielder and ex-head of first-team development at Old Trafford, Nicky Butt, has criticised Amorim for not showing Mainoo enough respect.
Speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, Butt said: “I don’t think he’s been respected the way he should’ve been, Kobbie.
“He’s a young boy, I get that, he’s gone off the boil a little bit, I get that, but he’s flew onto the scene, he’s playing for England – he’s a top, top player.
“Any club would want him, and he’s been brushed to the side. Now his mindset might be – you’re bringing me on in a derby where we’re getting battered and I’m on my own on this football pitch.”
Butt’s comments carry weight given his previous role at United. It begs the question that, if he were still head of development, would he have a word in Amorim’s ear about putting more faith in the Stockport-born midfield ace?
Steven Gerrard picks Mainoo over Archie Gray
Mainoo wanted to leave United on loan this summer.
It’s a World Cup year and Mainoo’s chances of making the England squad are in doubt, unless he gets more minutes on the pitch.
Former Liverpool captain and England international Steven Gerrard was asked to choose between a number of Premier League midfielders as part of a TikTok challenge.
Gerrard picked Mainoo over Leeds star Archie Gray.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
