Paul Scholes has criticized Manchester United’s handling of Kobbie Mainoo, claiming the young midfielder appears “lost” under head coach Ruben Amorim. Scholes believes the club lacks a clear plan for Mainoo, who has been deployed in various roles—including a surprise false nine appearance against Crystal Palace.
Mainoo’s future remains uncertain after reports linked him with a January move to Chelsea. United, facing financial constraints due to profit and sustainability rules, are open to selling the 19-year-old for the right price this summer.
The Red Devils reportedly value him at £80 million, seeing academy graduates like Mainoo as a financial boost since their sales count as pure profit.
Scholes isn’t alone in questioning United’s approach. Graeme Souness previously suggested Mainoo “doesn’t understand his position,” while Tony Cascarino warned Amorim against mismanaging the youngster by failing to play him consistently in his natural midfield role.
Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, Scholes compared Mainoo’s situation to Declan Rice’s struggles, stating:
“They don’t know what to do with him. I don’t think he knows where to play. He’s been used as a No. 10, in a midfield two, and even as a false nine, which makes no sense. He’s a great footballer, but he needs the right role.”
Mainoo is currently under contract until 2027 but is pushing for a new deal, as he earns just £20,000 per week. Last month, Amorim challenged him to prove he deserves a higher salary, stating:
“He’s not the finished product. He has so much potential but can be even better.”
As the summer transfer window approaches, Chelsea’s interest and United’s financial situation could determine whether Mainoo remains at Old Trafford or makes a big-money move elsewhere.