Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has issued a strong warning to rising star Kobbie Mainoo, urging the 20-year-old midfielder to improve the pace of his game if he wants to cement a regular starting spot next season.
Mainoo featured in 15 of 28 games under Amorim last season, often playing as a central or deep-lying midfielder—but also surprisingly deployed as a striker in United’s 2–0 loss to Crystal Palace in February.
With new arrivals Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo bolstering the attack, Mainoo is expected to return to his natural role in midfield. However, Amorim made it clear that talent alone won’t guarantee minutes.
“He’s a big talent… but he needs to increase the rhythm, the pace. I’m always on top of that with Kobbie because he is so good sometimes, but he can be better,” Amorim said.
United’s midfield is stacked with experienced names, including:
- Bruno Fernandes (Captain)
- Casemiro (High-earner)
- Mason Mount
- Manuel Ugarte
Amorim’s preferred two-man midfield system leaves little room for rotation, which makes Mainoo’s situation even more delicate.
“Everybody has to be prepared to play one game, or play all the games,” Amorim added. “That is a key point in our season.”
Mainoo’s inconsistent starting role has led to transfer speculation, with Chelsea reportedly interested, alongside several other Premier League clubs. However, Mainoo is understood to be committed to Manchester United, with a contract that runs until 2027.
Still, with Amorim demanding more energy and faster tempo in midfield, Mainoo’s development this season will be under close scrutiny.
