Ruben Amorim is open to discussing Kobbie Mainoo's future at Manchester United amid rumours of a potential loan in January. Mainoo has struggled for game time this season, appearing only 11 times across all competitions. Notably, he started just once, during United's unexpected EFL Cup defeat to Grimsby Town in September. His other appearances in the Premier League have been as a substitute.
Mainoo has played only 183 minutes in the Premier League this season. He received a warm reception after being substituted in the 78th minute during United's 4-1 victory over Wolves last Monday. Previously, he had requested a loan move in the summer, aiming to join Rasmus Hojlund at Napoli and secure a spot in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad.
Amorim has not
dismissed any possibilities regarding Mainoo's situation. When asked about allowing the 20-year-old to pursue a loan move in January, Amorim stated: "If Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him. I'm not going to say what I'm going to say to Kobbie, but I will be really pleased if Kobbie is coming to talk to me about that. "
Amorim emphasised his desire for his players' happiness and understanding of their personal goals. He added that frustration does not benefit anyone involved. Club legends Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand, and Nicky Butt have expressed concerns over how Mainoo's situation is being managed.
Scholes has also criticised Amorim regarding Manchester United's overall performance. The team currently sits eighth in the league table before facing Bournemouth on Monday. Despite losing only one of their last nine Premier League matches, United could re-enter the top six with a win against Bournemouth.
However, Amorim's win rate stands at just 33.3% in the league, having won 14 out of 42 matches (D10 L18). Scholes believes Amorim may not be suitable for the role due to his tactical approach.
Amorim Responds Calmly
When questioned about former players' critiques, Amorim responded: "I think it's normal. " He acknowledged that as Manchester United's manager, they are underperforming and should have accumulated more points this season. Amorim takes such criticism naturally and understands that former players view Manchester United through the lens of their past successes.
The current state of the club can be challenging for those who experienced its glory days. Amorim recognises that these former players might lack complete information about the team's current dynamics and challenges.
As discussions around Mainoo's future continue, it remains crucial for both player and club management to find an arrangement that benefits all parties involved while addressing concerns raised by former legends.
