Manchester United’s derby defeat to Manchester City has put fresh spotlight on Ruben Amorim’s midfield choices.
United’s 3-0 loss was another reminder that talent is there, but the system in place seems to leave it on the bench.
The name on many lips was not Erling Haaland or Kevin De Bruyne. It was Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old midfielder only came on after the hour mark, yet in a short cameo he caught the attention of fans, pundits — and even Pep Guardiola himself.
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Pep Guardiola in disbelief, United’s dilemma
Kobbie Mainoo should’ve started the game. Just look at Pep’s reaction here 😭😭😭#MUFC
— MUFC Scoop (@MUFCScoop) September 14, 2025
pic.twitter.com/o9noFKWurh
In one sequence, Mainoo showed power, control, and skill in a six-second burst that left Guardiola holding his head in disbelief. The City boss looked stunned at how easily the young midfielder had opened up space in the middle.
The problem? Amorim had once again started without him. United went two goals down before Mainoo was introduced, and by then the damage was done.
Amorim has defended his call, saying before the match: “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. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie and that’s it.”
The issue for fans is simple: Mainoo may not be the finished article, but he looks more complete than those picked ahead of him.
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The numbers don’t lie
Mainoo’s cameo was almost flawless. His stats stood out, even in a losing effort.
| Player | Minutes Played | Passes Completed | Ground Duels Won |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kobbie Mainoo | 28 | 18/18 | 3/3 |
In contrast, Amorim’s overall record at United paints a more worrying picture.
| Amorim at Man Utd | Games | Wins | Losses | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| As of Sept 14 | 47 | 18 | 20 | 9 |
The stats make one thing clear: while United’s midfield continues to struggle, one of their brightest talents is being used as a backup option.
Amorim insists his philosophy won’t change. But as results dip and pressure grows, even the best game plan can get caught offside.
With Chelsea up next, United must decide if Mainoo stays on the bench — or finally gets the start he deserves.
