Kobbie Mainoo is facing a tough season under Ruben Amorim, who believes the young midfielder is struggling defensively. The Manchester United starlet, once seen as a rising talent, has yet to replicate his breakthrough 2023/24 form.
Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has been vocal about Mainoo’s weaknesses, arguing that he lacks defensive awareness. “He’s great on the ball but doesn’t sense danger yet,” Souness wrote in his Daily Mail column.
The former Scotland international compared him unfavorably to Adam Wharton, stating that the Crystal Palace midfielder has a stronger grasp of defensive responsibilities.
United’s struggles this season have compounded Mainoo’s issues. Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League, they have lost seven of their last 11 matches. Amorim has attempted to reposition Mainoo further up the pitch, but the experiment has failed.
Playing as a striker in a 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace, he was ineffective. In an attacking midfield role against Leicester in the FA Cup, he struggled again and was eventually substituted.
Despite his difficulties, Mainoo is still only 19, and Souness believes he can improve with proper guidance. However, with United’s ongoing struggles, Amorim has bigger problems to solve as he prepares his side for their upcoming clash against Tottenham.