Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has delivered a blistering critique of current manager Ruben Amorim, accusing him of ‘ruining’ the career of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and suggesting the player should now seek an exit from Old Trafford.
Scholes Reaches Breaking Point After West Ham Draw
The explosive comments follow United's disappointing 1-1 draw with West Ham United on Thursday night, a result that saw them miss another chance to break into the Premier League's top five. As the team laboured for a winning goal, Amorim's substitutions raised eyebrows.
He introduced Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte, a player the manager has publicly said is ‘struggling’, while defenders Patrick Dorgu and Leny Yoro also came on. Amorim later explained he was concerned about losing second balls. Notably, Mainoo and fellow academy star Shea Lacey remained unused on the bench throughout, watching as United's creativity dried up after West Ham's equaliser.
A History of Frustration for Mainoo
The decision not to turn to the England international was the final straw for Scholes. Mainoo's situation has been a growing concern this season; he is yet to start a single Premier League game and was denied a potential loan move in the final days of the summer transfer window.
This frustration boiled over last week when Amorim told reporters he ‘considers Mainoo a starter’. Scholes responded furiously on his Instagram story, writing: ‘Bulls**t. The kid is being ruined, not being played in a team that can’t control a game of football.’ He added, ‘Hate seeing home grown players leave but it’s probably best for him now, enough is enough.’
What Next for the United Midfielder?
The post-match exchange highlighted the growing rift. When a reporter asked Amorim who would have been a more attacking substitution than the changes he made, Mainoo's name was suggested. The United manager responded with a laugh, a reaction unlikely to calm the growing discontent.
For Mainoo, the priority is clear: regular first-team football to force his way back into England plans for next summer's World Cup under Thomas Tuchel. A January move appears increasingly likely, with Napoli thought to be a preferred destination, potentially offering a reunion with former teammates Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund.
Scholes's intervention has thrown a harsh spotlight on Amorim's management of young talent and adds significant pressure on a United season that continues to stutter.
