Overview
- The 20-year-old was an unused substitute in Thursday’s 1-1 draw with West Ham as United used all five changes without turning to him, leaving him still without a Premier League start this season.
- Ruben Amorim told reporters it is “my decision” whether Mainoo plays, pointed to Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte occupying midfield roles, and said AFCON departures would not guarantee chances.
- Club legend Paul Scholes called the situation “bulls***” in a now-deleted post, saying Mainoo is “being ruined” and suggesting a move may be best, intensifying scrutiny of the manager’s approach.
- Napoli are monitoring a possible January move for Mainoo, with reports indicating United may wait to assess needs during the AFCON period before making any call on a loan.
- Mainoo’s marginal role contrasts with his 2023/24 breakthrough when he scored in the FA Cup final and started for England at Euro 2024, raising concerns about his development in a World Cup year.