Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has urged Kobbie Mainoo to ignore external "nonsense" and focus on fighting for his place in the team. Amorim's comments come in the wake of a controversial incident involving Mainoo's half-brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, who wore a "Free Kobbie Mainoo" t-shirt to United's recent 4-4 draw with Bournemouth. The image went viral, sparking debate and raising questions about Mainoo's future at the club.
Amorim has downplayed the significance of the t-shirt incident, stating that it would not influence his team selection. He insisted that Mainoo's playing time would be determined solely by his performance and suitability for the team. "It was not Kobbie that wore the t-shirt," Amorim declared. "He is not going to start because of the t-shirt, but he's not going to the bench because of the t-shirt. He's going to play if we feel that he is the right guy to play," he added.
Instead of focusing on the external noise, Amorim wants Mainoo to concentrate on learning from past Manchester United legends such as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, using their experiences as motivation to strive for a starting position. He wants Mainoo to remember that being on the bench can be a stepping stone to bigger and better things. Amorim pointed to the fact that Mainoo has made 11 appearances as a substitute this season, and he promised Mainoo that he will start when he thinks it is right. "Kobbie needs to fight for his job", he said.
Amorim also used his own personal experience to relate to Mainoo's situation. He revealed that he faced a similar situation at Sporting CP when his brother posted something online, and he had to answer for it. Amorim stated that he doesn't hold Mainoo responsible for his brother's actions, emphasizing that "He's a shy boy, but it's not his responsibility".
Furthermore, Amorim has criticized club legends who have suggested that young players should leave if they are not getting enough playing time. He urged Mainoo to stay and fight for his place, even if it means overcoming challenges and proving the manager wrong. "We have legends of the club saying if you don't play, leave, because everyone is wrong," he said. "No, let's stay, let's fight, let's overcome, maybe the manager is wrong, so I have that feeling all the time that we have to fight against this feeling," Amorim added.
Mainoo's talent is undeniable, and Amorim knows that Mainoo can operate in Casemiro's position as the holding midfielder. "Yes, he can," stated Amorim. Amorim stated that Mainoo needs to spend more time there but he can be in that position in the future. Despite reported interest in a loan move, Amorim wants Mainoo to remain at Manchester United and continue developing his skills. He believes that Mainoo has the potential to become a key player for the club in the future, but only if he is willing to fight for his place and ignore the "nonsense" surrounding him.
