Manchester United's manager, Ruben Amorim, has stated that Kobbie Mainoo, the 20-year-old midfielder, needs to "fight for his job" at the club. This comes amidst speculation about Mainoo's future, with the player yet to start a Premier League game this season.

Mainoo, who was a key player for England at the Euro 2024 final and an FA Cup hero, has found himself on the bench, leading to suggestions he might seek a loan move in January. His situation was further highlighted when his half-brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, wore a "Free Kobbie Mainoo" t-shirt during United's recent 4-4 draw against Bournemouth. The image quickly went viral.

Amorim addressed the t-shirt incident, stating that it wouldn't affect his team selection. "It was not Kobbie that wore the t-shirt," Amorim said. "He's 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's the right guy to play". He also added, "I'm not going to do something to Kobbie because someone in his family is doing something".

Despite the outside noise and the temptation to seek opportunities elsewhere, Amorim has urged Mainoo to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford. He also took a swipe at club legends suggesting Mainoo should leave if he isn't playing. Amorim said that players should be willing to fight for their places instead of seeking a way out. "We have legends of the club saying if you don't play, leave, because everyone is wrong," he stated. "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 also alluded to the possibility of Manchester United strengthening their squad in the January transfer window. However, despite limited playing time, Manchester United are reportedly not looking to sell Mainoo in January and will only consider the 20-year-old's departure if they receive an exceptional offer. There is a widespread desire at the club for Mainoo to stay and compete for his place under Amorim.

Amorim indicated earlier in December that Mainoo is competing for a starting spot with Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes has started every Premier League game this season and has been a key player, with five goals and seven assists in 16 league appearances.