Key Takeaways:
- Kobbie Mainoo remained an unused substitute for the fourth occasion this season during Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with West Ham on Thursday night
- Mainoo has accumulated just 171 Premier League minutes this term, as Ruben Amorim continues to favour Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in midfield roles
- Matthijs de Ligt is set to return for United’s upcoming visit to Wolves on Monday night, after missing the previous match against West Ham due to a minor injury
Amorim’s Approach: Performance-Driven Selections
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has addressed speculation regarding midfielder Kobbie Mainoo’s restricted playing time this season. Mainoo, who last started a top-flight match on the final day of the previous campaign, remained among the substitutes once again in the side’s 1-1 stalemate at West Ham on Thursday night. Despite the 20-year-old’s request to leave on loan during the summer transfer window, United opted to retain the academy graduate, leaving him with only 171 minutes in league action so far this term.
Amorim continues to build his midfield around the experienced duo of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, relegating Mainoo to the bench. The Portuguese’s decision-making has attracted criticism, with club legend Paul Scholes notably branding Amorim’s handling of Mainoo as “bulls***” and suggesting that the player’s development is being stifled.
Ruben Amorim on Kobbie Mainoo: "Of course, I understand (the questions about him) & my job is to answer. But I'm trying to answer always the same thing, & you ask me always the same thing. I understand what you are saying. You love Kobbie. He was, he starts for England, but that… pic.twitter.com/RcmjpXnRhE
— Simon Peach (@SimonPeach) December 5, 2025
Squad Dynamics and Youth Integration
Alongside Mainoo, only third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton (aged 39), the out-of-favour Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martinez – recently back from ten months on the sidelines – have yet to start a league fixture for United this season. Mainoo and academy prospect Shea Lacey, aged 18 and yet to feature competitively, were the sole youth products named in the matchday squad against West Ham.
The United manager dismissed claims of undervaluing the club’s academy and questioned the expectation to field younger players, especially in challenging circumstances. Amorim stated that his primary focus remains on fielding the “best prepared” players to deliver results for the club.
Manager’s Response to Criticism and Upcoming Fixtures
Responding to questions about Mainoo’s morale given his lack of first-team opportunities, Amorim admitted to recognising the player’s frustration. He emphasised that his selection principles remain unchanged, highlighting his intent to select what he believes is the optimal team without regard for individual profiles or academy status.
On potential opportunities for Mainoo amidst impending departures for the Africa Cup of Nations, Amorim expressed uncertainty, stating squad decisions will continue to be determined by training performances.
Looking ahead, Manchester United are scheduled to travel to Wolves on Monday night, seeking a victory against a side yet to record a win this Premier League season. Amorim, whose team were defeated at Molineux last campaign, was cautious in his remarks, acknowledging that no side has ever gone a full Premier League season without a victory, and underlining the unpredictability of the league.
| Player | Premier League Starts (2025/26) | Total League Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|
| Kobbie Mainoo | 0 | 171 |
| Tom Heaton | 0 | 0 |
| Tyrell Malacia | 0 | 0 |
| Lisandro Martinez | 0 | 0 |
Team News Ahead of Wolves Clash
United defender Matthijs de Ligt is anticipated to be available for selection at Molineux, following his absence against West Ham due to a minor injury.
