Softfootball understands that Manchester United boss Rúben Amorim has moved quickly to cool the noise around midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, insisting that performances, not outside chatter, will decide whether the 20-year-old earns more minutes.
The calm-but-firm message came during Amorim’s pre-match press conference, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, ahead of United’s tricky Premier League visit to high-flying Aston Villa.
He said:
Amorim: Kobbie Mainoo played really well vs Bournemouth! That is the important thing. My office is always open, nobody went there this week, so everything is normal.
Mainoo impressed in his short cameo during the wild 4-4 draw at Bournemouth. Instead of letting the match do the talking, attention turned toward Mainoo’s brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, who attended the game at Old Trafford wearing a Free Kobbie Mainoo t-shirt.
Amorim didn’t seem too bothered. He stressed bluntly that the shirt means nothing in terms of selection; Mainoo won’t start because of it, and he won’t be dropped because of it. In Amorim’s own words, the only thing that matters is whether Mainoo is the right guy for the job.
According to the manager, the youngster did exactly what was asked against Bournemouth, showing energy, bravery on the ball, and good decision-making under pressure.
With Casemiro suspended through yellow-card accumulation, the door is open for Mainoo’s first Premier League start of the 2025/26 campaign.
Amorim admitted he’s always open to honest conversations if players are frustrated or want clarity. Everything remains pretty normal behind the scenes.
The debate outside has been louder. But Amorim is steering the spotlight back onto the training pitch, arguing that young footballers should talk to coaches rather than relying on social-media-style campaigns.
Mainoo, a United academy product who has made just 12 appearances this season, mostly from the bench, has supporters calling for more trust. His sharp display at Bournemouth may have tilted the argument slightly in his favour.
And with Villa having lost only once in 32 home league matches under Unai Emery, United might need all the midfield control they can get. If Mainoo gets the nod on Sunday, it could mark a quiet but meaningful turning point.
