Ruben Amorim's Decision: Fernandes' Spot Secure, Mainoo's Future in Doubt
Ruben Amorim's latest comments have raised questions about Kobbie Mainoo's future at Manchester United. Kobbie Mainoo's chances of starting for Manchester United are slim, with Bruno Fernandes' spot in the team appearing secure.
“I changed two midfielders. I like Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal...”
Kobbie Mainoo's future at Manchester United is uncertain, with manager Ruben Amorim stating the young midfielder must compete with captain Bruno Fernandes for a starting spot. Mainoo hasn't featured in United's first two Premier League games, and Amorim's comments suggest he's not guaranteed a place in the team. Amorim emphasized that Mainoo needs to fight for his position in training, indicating a competitive atmosphere in the Manchester United midfield.
Competition in Midfield
Bruno Fernandes: United's captain and a regular starter, Fernandes has shown his importance to the team, even missing a penalty in the 1-1 draw against Fulham.
Kobbie Mainoo: The 20-year-old England international has been sidelined so far this season, with Amorim opting for other midfielders like Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte.
Mason Mount: Started in the attack against Fulham but was moved into midfield after Casemiro's substitution, showcasing Amorim's tactical flexibility.
Mainoo's absence from the starting lineup has raised concerns about his future at United, with some speculating he might consider a move elsewhere to gain regular playing time. A potential League Cup appearance against Grimsby might be his best chance to get some game time in the short term.
🚨🎥| Kobbie Mainoo getting on the team bus after the game against Fulham yesterday.
— UtdKev (@UtdKev8) August 25, 2025
He looks so dejected 😔💔 pic.twitter.com/hBnZc3LUKw
The match between Manchester United and Fulham ended in a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage on August 24, 2025. Manchester United took the lead through a deflected own goal by Rodrigo Muniz after a corner kick from Bryan Mbeumo was headed by Leny Yoro. However, Fulham's fortunes changed when Emile Smith Rowe came off the bench and scored within two minutes, leveling the scores.
Tactical Maneuvering
Ruben Amorim's substitutions played a crucial role in the match. He replaced Casemiro with new striker Benjamin Sesko and moved Mason Mount, who started up front, back into midfield. Amorim then replaced Mount with Manuel Ugarte in search of a winner, showcasing his tactical flexibility. Meanwhile, Fulham's manager Marco Silva set his team up in a 3-5-1-1 formation, effectively disrupting Manchester United's rhythm and enabling Fulham to control possession.
Key Highlights
Emile Smith Rowe's Impact: Smith Rowe's quick impact off the bench was decisive, earning him praise for his composure in front of goal.
Bruno Fernandes' Missed Penalty: Bruno Fernandes missed a crucial first-half penalty, blasting the ball over the bar, which could have extended United's lead.
Tactical Battle: The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating chances but ultimately sharing the spoils.
Bruno Fernandes' spot in Manchester United's starting lineup appears secure despite his disappointing first-half penalty miss against Fulham. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo's prospects of breaking into the team seem slim in the immediate future. The young midfielder might get a chance to feature in the League Cup match against Grimsby Town on Wednesday, August 28, but that's about the best he can hope for now.
Fernandes has been a consistent performer for Manchester United, and his captaincy hasn't been affected by the penalty miss. Mainoo, on the other hand, will likely have to wait for his chance to shine.
“He is fighting for the position now with Bruno,” said Amorim. “I changed two midfielders. I like Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal.
“And then when I changed it, I felt that the team needed to return to one holding midfielder.
“So he just needs to fight for the position with Bruno in training. Like it should be at Manchester United.”
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