Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Amorim Stands By Mainoo Omission, Scholes Condemns as Napoli Monitor January Loan

The England midfielder remains without a league start this season, sharpening focus on a possible January move.

Overview

  • Kobbie Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League game in 2025–26 and was an unused substitute in Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with West Ham, leaving him on 171 league minutes.
  • Ruben Amorim said selections are about winning and fitness, citing Bruno Fernandes’ role and Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte in deeper positions, and he offered no guarantees even during AFCON absences.
  • Paul Scholes posted an expletive-laden criticism of Mainoo’s treatment, saying the player is being “ruined,” before later deleting the message.
  • Mainoo’s frustration has been noted in his social-media activity, with reports he liked a post highlighting Amorim’s comments, and Alejandro Garnacho also liked a fan post sharing Scholes’ critique.
  • The Times reported Mainoo’s representatives have held talks with Napoli over a January loan after a summer request was denied, though other reports suggest United’s stance on a mid-season exit remains uncertain.