Kobbie Mainoo’s brother publicly demanded more playing time for the star by wearing a “FREE KOBBIE MAINO0” T-shirt at Old Trafford, while manager Ruben Amorim defended his selection by stating “it’s really hard to take Bruno Fernandes out of the team.”
Kobbie Mainoo’s brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, delivered a pointed message to manager Ruben Amorim and Manchester United by wearing a “FREE KOBBIE MAINO0” T-shirt during the chaotic 4-4 draw against Bournemouth.
The statement comes as the midfielder has yet to start a Premier League match this season, intensifying speculation about a potential January departure from Old Trafford.
Addressing questions about a potential loan, Amorim was open to dialogue but defended his selection choices.
He stated: “If Kobbie comes to me and talks to me, I will talk to him.” Amorim justified Mainoo’s limited role by noting: “it’s really hard to take Bruno Fernandes out of the team and that is the only reason.”
The public plea follows Paul Scholes’ prior warning that Mainoo’s promising career is “being ruined” by a lack of playing time.
The 20-year-old, who netted the FA Cup final winner last season, was eventually introduced as a substitute for Casemiro after the hour mark, receiving an enthusiastic cheer from the Old Trafford crowd.