Mainoo is not 'finished product' says Amorim amid Chelsea interest in midfielder

Ruben Amorim has talked of Kobbie Mainoo's potential as Manchester prepare to face Arsenal in the FA Cup.

After an impressive 2-2 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool last weekend, hopes are high that the Reds can build on that.

United’s performance at Anfield showcased promise under Amorim, but consistency is key as the team prepares for a challenging away fixture at the Emirates Stadium.

The Red Devils won the FA Cup last season, but drawing Arsenal at this stage is one of the toughest tests they could have faced.

The last time United visited the Emirates, they suffered a frustrating 2-0 defeat in December, conceding both goals from set pieces.

Amorim will be keen to avoid a repeat and is expected to stick with a similar lineup to the one that impressed at Anfield.

Central to that performance was the midfield duo of Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte, who have shown signs of forming a formidable partnership.

Fans and Amorim alike are hoping this pair can drive the team forward, even as Mainoo’s future at the club has been the subject of speculation this week.

Mainoo, 19, has been linked with a move to Chelsea, raising concerns among United supporters.

While Mainoo is reportedly keen to stay at Old Trafford, the rumors have been an unwelcome distraction.

Amorim has addressed the speculation and offered a realistic perspective on Mainoo’s development.

“I think you guys feel like Kobbie Mainoo is the finished product—he is not,” Amorim said. “He has so much potential to grow even more. He is really good, but he can be so much better. I think he is improving, and all the players are improving.”

Amorim’s comments reflect his belief that Mainoo is still in the early stages of his growth, despite already shining in the Premier League and even playing in the Euro 2024 final.

While Mainoo and Ugarte may currently be United’s best midfield pairing, Amorim knows additional reinforcements are needed.

Both Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have been linked with moves away, as neither player appears to be at their peak anymore.

Clearing wages and creating room for new signings could bring fresh competition to United’s midfield.

Amorim likely sees this as an opportunity to push Mainoo to further heights, believing that quality competition will help the youngster reach his full potential.

“Iron sharpens iron,” as the saying goes, and Amorim seems intent on ensuring Mainoo thrives in a competitive environment.

Despite the transfer rumours, Amorim’s faith in Mainoo is clear. United fans will be hoping the 19-year-old continues his development at Old Trafford rather than elsewhere, with Amorim guiding him to become a star in the team’s midfield.

For now, the focus remains on Arsenal and building on last week’s performance. A win at the Emirates would not only boost morale but also reinforce the belief that Amorim’s United are heading in the right direction.

As the team looks to retain their FA Cup title, Sunday’s game will be a key opportunity to showcase their progress.