Manchester United legend Nicky Butt has expressed serious concern over the handling of midfielder Kobbie Mainoo under head coach Ruben Amorim, describing the situation as “scary.”
Mainoo, who broke into the first team during the 2023/24 season under Erik ten Hag, made 32 appearances and was widely regarded as one of United’s brightest academy graduates. His impressive displays earned him a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, where he eventually started the final against Spain.
A Surprising Fall Down the Pecking Order
Despite his rapid rise, Mainoo’s momentum has slowed dramatically following Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford. The 20-year-old has made only eight Premier League appearances this season — all from the bench — and nine in all competitions.
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While not completely frozen out, his reduced role has raised eyebrows, including from Butt, who oversaw his development while serving as United’s academy manager.
Nicky Butt: “It’s Scary He’s Not Playing”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Butt did not hide his disappointment at Mainoo’s stagnation:
“I am worried about him because he’s a superstar. He got into the England team at 18. He was one of the best performers at the Euros for us.
The scary thing for me is that if Kobbie Mainoo were playing for Crystal Palace, for example, Man United would go and buy him for £60–70 million, guaranteed. So it is alarming that he’s not playing a lot.”
Butt emphasised that the issue isn’t about attitude, effort, or talent but simply the lack of opportunity:
“He loves the club. He loves football. And if he were at any other Premier League team — besides maybe City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea — United would be in for him in January for £50–60m.”
Mainoo’s Future at Old Trafford
Mainoo scored his last goal for Manchester United in April during a Europa League tie against Lyon, but since then he has struggled to secure consistent minutes in the Premier League.
With fixtures coming thick and fast and United fighting to regain form, fans will hope Amorim finds a place for one of the club’s most naturally gifted young midfielders.
Whether Mainoo’s role changes in the coming weeks remains to be seen — but Nicky Butt’s comments have intensified the spotlight on the situation.
