One of the biggest criticisms of Ruben Amorim at Manchester United was his decision to overlook Kobbie Mainoo.
During his time as head coach, Ruben Amorim said Kobbie Mainoo was behind Bruno Fernandes in the pecking order, so the Carrington graduate was starved of game time.
It was only after Amorim’s sacking at United that Kobbie Mainoo made his first Premier League start for the Red Devils in 2025/26.
What are your expectations for Kobbie Mainoo now Ruben Amorim has been fired?
Mainoo has started in both of Michael Carrick’s games as head coach, helping United to wins over Manchester City and Arsenal in consecutive weeks.
Gary Neville raved about Mainoo’s display in the latest 3-2 win over Arsenal, and the United midfielder also fired back at Amorim in the process.
Kobbie Mainoo has proven Ruben Amorim completely wrong
Amorim was facing a barrage of questions about Mainoo during his time as head coach, and his explanation for overlooking the youngster was due to his energy levels.
Amorim wanted Mainoo to have more intensity and inject more energy and pace into games.
In his first two starts this season, that is exactly what he has done for Carrick.
Should Kobbie Mainoo be an automatic starter under Michael Carrick now?
Kobbie Mainoo only needed 90 minutes to prove Ruben Amorim wrong!
As per TNT Sports, Mainoo has covered more distance than any other player in United’s last two matches.
Mainoo has proven that he can be that box-to-box midfielder that United have been crying out for. Alongside Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, he has formed a strong trio.
Kobbie Mainoo can go on 2026 World Cup run
Carrick has 15 games remaining as head coach, before Ineos plan to replace him with a permanent appointment in the summer.
Mainoo has thrived under Carrick so far, and he will not want to slow down anytime soon, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
Mainoo is desperate to play at the World Cup, and if he continues his current form, he may just sway Thomas Tuchel.
He played a key role in England’s Euros 2024 run, including playing in the final.
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