Gary Neville: Amorim 'isn't having Mainoo and central midfield needs sorting out'

Manchester United find themselves in a delicate balancing act regarding Kobbie Mainoo’s future, as contract negotiations stall and playing time remains elusive under manager Rúben Amorim.

Despite being one of United’s brightest young talents, Mainoo has yet to feature this season and has seen himself pushed down the midfield pecking order.

The weekend’s game against Fulham further highlighted his marginalisation, with Amorim opting for a midfield of Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte — leaving Mainoo on the bench.

Financial considerations are believed to be at the heart of Mainoo’s stalled contract talks. The midfielder is reportedly seeking between £150,000 and £180,000 per week — a rate United have so far hesitated to meet as they juggle Profit and Sustainability Regulations and the wider costs of squad rebuilding.

His current deal, which runs until 2027, contains performance-linked clauses, but there has been no breakthrough in talks over a fresh extension.

Adding fuel to the debate, Gary Neville has spoken out about the situation. Writing in the Daily Mail, Neville described United’s handling of Mainoo as concerning.

He said: “I would have liked to have thought Kobbie Mainoo could step up and be that person. But it is quite clear at this moment in time, Rúben Amorim is not having him. He starts with Bruno [Fernandes] and Casemiro, then he puts Mason Mount back in there and then brings Manuel Ugarte on ahead of him — which tells us he is fourth choice.

"That means they are going to have to get something sorted because it is a problem.”

United now face a dilemma: either secure their emerging academy star through a new agreement or risk alienating him as he surveys a future with limited minutes.

Many fans and pundits argue Mainoo represents the kind of homegrown talent the club must build around, not bench.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether United bridge the divide in time — or watch one of their most promising prospects slip through their fingers.