Kobbie Mainoo is facing an uncertain future at Manchester United after manager Ruben Amorim revealed the midfielder is competing with captain Bruno Fernandes for a place in the team.
England international Mainoo has yet to feature for United this season, missing both the opening-day defeat by Arsenal and Sunday's 1-1 draw at Fulham.
The 20-year-old was overlooked by Amorim at Craven Cottage as United chased victory after Fulham's Emile Smith Rowe cancelled out the Rodrigo Muniz own-goal which had given the visitors the lead.
🚨 Ruben Amorim’s post-match interview! 🧑🏫🎤 pic.twitter.com/HJFaRagg5e
— The United HQ (@TheUTDHQ) August 24, 2025
When Amorim replaced Casemiro with new striker Benjamin Sesko, he moved Mason Mount, who started up front, back into midfield.
Portuguese boss Amorim then replaced Mount with Manuel Ugarte before turning to defenders Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven in search of a winner.
Fernandes blazed a first-half penalty over the crossbar but his place as a first-team regular remains assured, with a League Cup appearance against Grimsby on Wednesday seemingly the best Mainoo can hope for in the short term.
🚨🎙️| Ruben Amorim: "Last year, I was sometimes worried about going to matches, but now I'm excited, it's completely different. We have suffered so much together, and that can create bonds. The team spirit is really good. When you feel that the team is playing well. pic.twitter.com/Pf01eYYMdb
— Ivan (@UTDIvan_) August 23, 2025
"He is fighting for the position now with Bruno," said Amorim. "I changed two midfielders. I like Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal.
"And then when I changed it, I felt that the team needed to return to one holding midfielder.
"So he just needs to fight for the position with Bruno in training. Like it should be at Manchester United."