Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has firmly rejected suggestions he does not trust the club's famed academy, pointing to the continued presence of midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in his first-team plans as clear evidence to the contrary.
Mainoo's Limited Role This Season
The debate was sparked after the 20-year-old Mainoo was an unused substitute during United's recent 1-1 Premier League draw with West Ham at Old Trafford. The talented midfielder, who joined the club at the age of six, has found opportunities limited this campaign.
He has made a total of ten appearances across all competitions, but his only start came in the Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town. His absence from the starting lineup in league matches has led to questions about Amorim's commitment to promoting youth.
Amorim's Firm Defence
When directly questioned about his trust in the academy's products, Amorim's response was succinct and pointed. "Why [ask]? We have Kobbie Mainoo," the Portuguese coach stated.
He acknowledged being aware of the player's disappointment at not featuring more but emphasised that his sole focus is on fielding the strongest possible side. "I see it. I see it and I just want to win," Amorim explained. "I don't look who it is, I don't care about that, I just try to put the best players on the pitch."
Amorim cited the competition in Mainoo's position as a key factor, noting that Bruno Fernandes is consistently fit and occupying that role, while summer signing Manuel Ugarte has also been selected when Casemiro was unavailable.
Future Opportunities and AFCON Absences
The conversation also turned to another highly-rated teenager, Shea Lacey. The 18-year-old forward has been named in the last three matchday squads without making an appearance. Amorim defended his selection policy, highlighting the depth of experienced international players also waiting for a chance.
However, a potential opening may arise in the coming weeks. Key attackers Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo are set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The tournament begins in Morocco on December 21st, with players mandated to be released by their clubs by December 15th.
This could see Fernandes deployed further forward, potentially creating a vacancy in midfield. When asked if this might lead to a chance for Mainoo, Amorim remained pragmatic. "It depends," he said. "If I see in the training it is the best thing, I will put him in." For now, his immediate focus is on United's next fixture at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The situation underscores the delicate balance managers must strike between integrating promising academy graduates and selecting established stars to deliver immediate results, a challenge Amorim is navigating in the high-pressure environment at Old Trafford.
