Man United boss Ruben Amorim reveals reason for benching Kobbie Mainoo for Premier League start

The English star has been underutilised ever since Amorim’s arrival at the club.

Kobbie Mainoo has not yet made an appearance for Manchester United this season, despite the team only picking up 1 point in the opening two matches. But according to Ruben Amorim, this is because he is ranked lower than Bruno Fernandes in the pecking order.

The 20-year-old Mainoo has not been used in United’s opening two Premier League games of the 2025–26 season. After losing to Arsenal by a slim margin of 1-0 in their first game, the Red Devils drew 1-1 with Fulham on Sunday to earn their first league point of the year.

In response to a question about whether Mainoo’s lack of rhythm has prevented him from playing thus far, Amorim stated that the academy graduate’s competition with captain Fernandes for the same spot in his starting eleven is the real reason.

Also Read: Bruno Fernandes fires shot at referee after penalty miss for Man United in Premier League

Ruben Amorim backs Mainoo to fight for his spot in the starting 11

After United’s stalemate with Fulham, Amorim explained Mainoo’s predicament at his post-match press briefing, saying:

 “No, he is fighting for the position now with Bruno (Fernandes). And I changed two midfielders. I like Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal. And then when I change it, I felt that the team needed to return to one holding midfielder.

“So he (Mainoo) just needs to fight for the position with Bruno in training. Like it should be at Manchester United.”

After making his debut in 2023 through United’s youth, Mainoo had a spectacular ascent. Under previous manager Erik ten Hag, the Stockport-born midfielder made 32 appearances across all competitions in 2023–24, scoring the game-winning goal as his team won the FA Cup that season. He then helped England get to the Euro 2024 final last year.

When United visits Grimsby Town on Wednesday for the second round of the Carabao Cup, Amorim may rearrange his lineup and give Kobbie Mainoo a starting position. On August 30, the Old Trafford team will welcome Burnley in their third Premier League game.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.