Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is facing increasing scrutiny regarding his handling of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, with criticism coming from several prominent former players. Amorim has acknowledged the concerns, stating he understands the perspectives of club legends who are accustomed to seeing the team consistently compete for titles.

Mainoo, a 20-year-old academy graduate, was viewed as a potential future star after breaking into the first team. However, he has struggled to find consistent playing time under Amorim, with only one start in all competitions this season, which came in a Carabao Cup defeat against Grimsby Town in August. This lack of opportunities has led to speculation about Mainoo's future at Old Trafford, with reports linking him with a January loan move to Serie A champions Napoli.

Former Manchester United players such as Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, and Rio Ferdinand have voiced their concerns over Mainoo's situation. Scholes has been particularly critical, suggesting that Amorim "doesn't get the club" and that Mainoo should seek a move elsewhere to gain regular playing time. He went further after United's recent draw with West Ham, accusing Amorim of "ruining" the player and stating it would be best for Mainoo to leave. Ferdinand and Butt have echoed these sentiments, also advising Mainoo to consider a move to secure more consistent minutes.

Amorim has defended his decisions, insisting that he picks the best players available for each match, regardless of age or previous performances. He has also pointed to the competition in midfield, with players like Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte ahead of Mainoo in the pecking order. Amorim has stated that Mainoo remains an integral part of the squad, but that he simply has to make difficult choices.

Despite the criticism, Amorim has vetoed a deal for Mainoo to leave in January. He stated he would be happy to talk to Mainoo about a loan move if the player initiates the conversation. However, Amorim also laughed at the suggestion of bringing Mainoo on during the match against West Ham, which drew further criticism from fans and former players.

Amorim acknowledged that United are "underachieving" and that he takes responsibility for the team's current position. He added that he understands the frustration of former players who are used to seeing Manchester United compete at the highest level. In October 2025, Amorim responded to criticism of his system, stating that the team's struggles were not due to the system, but rather a result of inconsistency and "baggage" from the previous season. He also expressed his belief that the players need to take more responsibility for the team's performance.

The situation surrounding Kobbie Mainoo highlights the delicate balance between developing young talent and achieving immediate results. While Amorim insists that Mainoo has a future at Manchester United, the lack of playing time and the public criticism from club legends have raised serious questions about the player's development and his long-term prospects at Old Trafford.