Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is keeping himself in top shape during the October international break despite struggling to secure a regular spot in Ruben Amorim’s squad. Since the Portuguese boss took over at Old Trafford, it has been difficult for Mainoo to make his mark. The manager has made it clear that he is vying with Bruno Fernandes for a starting position, which has limited his playing time.
Mainoo has featured in the advanced playmaker role, but the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have further complicated his quest for a regular place. This lack of game time prompted the 20-year-old to request a loan move away from Old Trafford. With the World Cup looming at the end of the season, Mainoo needs regular football to be considered for Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Amorim was quick to dismiss Mainoo’s request, insisting he is an integral part of the squad. Despite this, he is yet to start a Premier League game for United and speculation about a transfer is likely to resurface when the January window opens.
Regardless of any frustration, Mainoo has maintained his professional standards. During the international break, he travelled to Marbella to prepare for the Premier League’s return.
In the Spanish sun, he has continued his on-pitch and gym training. The midfielder shared snaps of his gym session on Instagram, captioning the post: “Blessed.”
This will undoubtedly be a welcome sight for Amorim, who will appreciate Mainoo’s dedication to his craft.
Meanwhile, the player himself will be eagerly awaiting his chance to shine on the pitch. The Red Devils are set to face off against Liverpool in their next Premier League match on Sunday.
It seems Amorim will not be going anywhere for the foreseeable future, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe prepared to give him up to three seasons to prove himself.
The struggling United boss recently spoke about Mainoo, insisting that he can do more to earn his place in the starting line-up.
Speaking before the Manchester derby, Amorim said: “I didn’t have a conversation with him before the window closed because I didn’t want him thinking that I was having a conversation with him just to hold on to him.
“I believe in him a lot. He is a top player, but some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done [a complete player]. I think he can do so much better.
“For some guys [talent] is enough, but for him it is not. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie and that’s it.”