Overview
- Kobbie Mainoo remains without a Premier League start this season, with 11 substitute appearances and around 212 league minutes.
- Ruben Amorim urged the 20-year-old to compete for his spot and said “maybe” he will start on Sunday against Aston Villa.
- With Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui at AFCON and Casemiro suspended, Amorim said a switch to a back four is possible.
- Addressing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt worn by the player’s half-brother, Amorim called Mainoo a shy player and said the matter is not his responsibility.
- Chelsea, West Ham and Napoli have been linked with Mainoo, as Giggs counsels patience and others suggest a move, while reporting indicates United plan to keep him and focus January business on long-term targets.