Ruben Amorim drops major Kobbie Mainoo Manchester United future hint as fresh decision made
A tactical switch which helped Manchester United's young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo shine in the Europa League win has been praised. The club progressed to the next stage of the competition on Thursday night and some United fans in the Manchester Evening News comments section say that Ruben Amorim's decision to change the England international's role was crucial in helping his side win.
Mainoo scored and assisted against Romania's FCSB, first firing a low cross for Diogo Dalot to convert, then putting away a neat cut-back from fellow academy graduate Alejandro Garnacho. Amorim had started Mainoo as a 10, rather than further back with a defensive midfield partner - as Bruno Fernandes took the more reserved role as a result.
The change helped Mainoo to flourish further up the pitch, having previously been primarily used as one half of a defensive pivot. Amorim spoke to MUTV about Mainoo's new role and said: "He had more freedom and he was closer to the box. He's so technical and can change the game there, so I think it's a good position for him - we will see. But I'm really happy to see Kobbie enjoying the game a little bit more."
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The tactical shift has had fans talking - with many insisting the decision offers a massive hint at where Mainoo will fit into the team moving forward. Reader MickShaw writes: "I reckon we saw things coming together, Mainoo was very good in the 10 role. Yes he linked up well with Bruno, but also with Amad and Garnacho. I would like to see more of Mainoo at 10.
"First half we had all the possession but it was slow, and when we got a cross into the six yard box nobody there for us. Second half, Amad and Garnacho went on and the difference was instant, I think it is the first time in a while I enjoyed watching United."
For some, the change was obvious, as commenter Anniemause says: "The shame of it is, had Amorim had the opportunity to have viewed all of Mainoo's performances before he arrived, and going back to last season, it would have been obvious from the outset and possibly could have saved United a good few lost points.
"Mainoo's best performances both for United (such as the Cup Final) and England always revolve around his work in the opponent's final third, whereas he was regularly seen in TV replays last season arriving back in United's area after an opponent's attack had finished."
John198 agrees: "I’ve said all along, Mainoo should play as a 10, as he lacks the physicality and pace to play midfield." Pintofporter says: "Mainoo hasn't got the stamina to play centre midfield. This forward position is more suited to him."
20times20timesmanutd writes: "A great second half performance, Mainoo played very well in an advanced role. Lots of positives to take from that, well done lads!" Chickenoriental adds: "I think Mainoo needs more time in the no. 10 role. His movement has been great. Plus a goal and an assist too."
Redmagic says: "Mainoo's looked a real handful in that 10 role, think he has to start there more often. Garnacho seems to be playing and understanding his role and position now, in which he looks more like the player we know he can be. Deffo signs of more improvement and 3rd win on the spin. Well done the lads."
Have your say! Has Mainoo convinced you that he's part of Manchester United's future? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.