Kobbie Mainoo has gotten a lot of fans excited, but not everyone is a fan
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has expressed doubts over Kobbie Mainoo’s development under Ruben Amorim, suggesting that the club is unsure of the youngster’s best position.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports
Mainoo, who emerged as one of United’s few bright sparks last season, has struggled for consistency this term amid positional changes and a new tactical setup.
Scholes questions Mainoo’s role in Amorim’s system
Mainoo was a revelation for United last season, earning a Golden Boy nomination and a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024.
)
However, this season has been more turbulent, with the 19-year-old struggling to find his rhythm due to injuries and positional experimentation under Amorim.
Scholes believes Mainoo is being played out of position, telling The Overlap Fan Debate: "'I think Mainoo is lost.
)
“I don't think he knows where to play on a football pitch because he's been played in one of the number 10 positions, he has been played in the two in the midfield, which I can see probably doesn't suit him because I don't think [he is] the greatest athlete.
'He's a great footballer. I think the No 10 does suit, (but) the false nine, never in a million years.'
Manchester United’s midfield conundrum
While naturally a deep-lying midfielder, Mainoo has recently been deployed in more advanced roles, including as a striker against Crystal Palace.
)
Amorim has praised Mainoo’s pressing ability and one-on-one skills, but his positional flexibility appears to be causing more confusion than help.
Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation complicates Mainoo’s role further. The system relies on two attacking midfielders behind a lone striker, while the two central midfielders provide defensive cover and ball progression.
)
With Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Christian Eriksen among United’s midfield options, finding the right balance remains a challenge..