Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim explains Kobbie Mainoo’s bench warming role at club

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim has opened up on Kobbie Mainoo’s bench warming role in the ongoing campaign.

Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League match for the Red Devils, fueling his desire to depart the club in the winter window.

Despite blocking his summer departure, Ruben Amorim has sparingly used the English-Ghanaian midfielder this season, undermining his future in the England national team ahead of the World Cup.

He has played 171 minutes in the Premier League, as well as the full 90 in the Carabao Cup against Grimsby Town.

Explaining Mainoo’s bench warming role, Amorim said, “Of course, I value Kobbie Mainoo. But in the end, the most important things are training and games. Of course, he is not playing many matches, but Kobbie has had opportunities, especially last year. Everyone did,”

The manager also responded to criticism from former Manchester United legends regarding Mainoo’s limited game time.

“Not winning is the issue. If I’m winning, I can go to the games on a horse, arrive there, play with just two defenders, and everything will be fine,” Amorim added.

Mainoo, who has struggled for minutes at Manchester United this season is pushing for a move away from the Old Trafford, with a hosts of clubs expressing interest in the midfielder.

Currently, twelve top European clubs are vying for the signature of the talented midfielder, with Chelsea emerging as the frontrunner in the pursuit of the Englishman

However, Mainoo’s personal preference puts Napoli at the top of his list. For him, being a guaranteed starter is crucial, drawing inspiration from Scott McTominay, who found success after moving to Napoli.

Mainoo is seeking regular playing time to boost his chances of making England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder is eager for a fresh challenge to accelerate his career development.