Amorim warns Mainoo as he reveals his main Man Utd problem

Kobbie Mainoo has received another warning shot from Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim ahead of the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old England international midfielder has struggled for game time this season and has yet to start a Premier League match, fuelling rumours he could leave next month.

United are insistent that they want to retain Mainoo, despite interest from a dozen clubs, but Amorim is refusing to bow to pressure from fans, who want to see the academy product given more of a chance.

The Portuguese has doubled down on his stance ahead of Monday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

“Kobbie Mainoo plays in the same position as Bruno Fernandes, and it’s difficult to take him off the team,” Amorim warned.

“Of course I rate Kobbie Mainoo. But in the end, it’s going to be the training, the games. Of course, he’s not playing so many games, but Kobbie has had opportunities, especially last year. Everyone has.”

Amorim would be ‘pleased’ to have transfer talks

Amorim says is looking forward to talking with Mainoo about his future after the youngster requested a transfer in the summer only for it to be rejected.

“If Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him,” said the head coach.

“I’m not going to say what I’m going to say to Kobbie, but I will be really pleased if Kobbie comes to talk to me about that. I just want my players happy, and I understand that every individual has their goals.

“The frustration of any player doesn’t help anybody. But again, the focus is Bournemouth and we will see if that happens. I had some conversations with him, especially last year, and with other players but about that subject, no I didn’t speak with him. I am completely open to talk.”

Mainoo’s not a problem – failing to win is

The Portuguese has been criticised by several former Man Utd stars for his refusal to give Mainoo more game time, with Paul Scholes particularly vocal about the call.

It doesn’t concern Amorim, though.

“Not winning games is the issue,” he said. “If I’m winning, I can go to the games on a horse, arrive there, play with just two defenders, and everything will be fine.”

Man Utd will move up to fifth in the Premier League should they overcome Bournemouth prior to a tricky trip to Aston Villa on Sunday.

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