Ruben Amorim’s rigid commitment to a 3-4-2-1 formation at Manchester United has led to constant shifts in personnel, with 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo frequently caught in the shuffle.
From central midfield to attacking roles and even a brief stint as a forward, Mainoo has been deployed in multiple positions, with mixed results.
Despite showing promise in an advanced role during a Europa League clash in January, his performance leading the line against Crystal Palace was underwhelming.
After another lackluster display in the FA Cup against Leicester, former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino criticized Amorim’s handling of the young midfielder.
“When he first broke into the team, he played with such ease,” Cascarino told talkSPORT. “He was confident, knew his role, and even earned a spot in the England squad.
But watching him now, he looks confused. He’s passing backward too often, afraid to lose the ball, and struggling in Amorim’s tactical setup.”
Cascarino added that Mainoo’s constant position changes have hindered his growth. “He needs to establish himself as a natural central midfielder. Right now, he’s being moved around too much, and it’s affecting his game.”
With Mainoo playing deeper against Leicester, Rasmus Højlund was restored as United’s striker, but the Dane also endured a frustrating evening. As United prepare for a crucial Premier League clash against Tottenham, Amorim faces increasing scrutiny over his tactical decisions and their impact on his squad’s development.