Manchester United's young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been delivered a stark assessment of his season, with former Premier League player Dan Gosling claiming the England international is simply not doing enough to earn a starting spot.
Gosling's Brutal Training Ground Verdict
Mainoo, 20, has found himself on the fringes of the first team this campaign, playing just over 200 minutes in the Premier League. His only start came in the Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town. Speaking on Sky Sports' Transfer Show, Dan Gosling suggested the problem lies on the training pitch at Carrington.
"He's obviously not doing enough on the training pitch because Ruben Amorim isn't not picking him because of his personality," Gosling stated. "He's not doing enough on the training pitch to deserve his place. It's simple as that." Gosling urged Mainoo to stay and fight, criticising a trend of players seeking moves away from Old Trafford.
Injury Compounds Midfield Frustrations
The situation was compounded ahead of United's recent 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa. With Casemiro suspended, a vacancy opened in midfield, but Mainoo picked up a calf injury in training and was ruled out. Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the setback, saying, "After training, he went to the doctor. He got something in his calf... He is going to be fine in a few weeks, I think."
This forced Amorim to field Manuel Ugarte alongside Bruno Fernandes, who himself lasted only 45 minutes before injury. The timing was described as bad for both the team and the player, denting Mainoo's hopes of impressing during a crucial period.
Transfer Speculation and United's Stance
Mainoo's lack of action has led to speculation he could seek a move in the January transfer window, with clubs like Napoli reportedly interested. However, United's stance appears firm. The club is unlikely to sanction any early January exits, a position strengthened by Fernandes's fresh injury concern.
Furthermore, the club is not expected to approve any departures until their Africa Cup of Nations participants—Noussair Mazraoui, Bryan Mbeumo, and Amad—return to duty. Amorim's preferred 3-4-2-1 system utilises a double pivot, a role in which he seemingly feels Mainoo has not yet shown the required qualities.
Gosling concluded that Mainoo must look to emulate Casemiro's response to being dropped, improve his physique, and prove his worth daily. "He can also play higher up," Gosling added. "He's obviously not doing enough on a day-to-day basis to convince Ruben Amorim." For now, the young midfielder's immediate future hinges on recovery and convincing his manager in training.
