Club must learn to play without fear and harness their young players, particularly Kobbie Mainoo, and regain a seat at Europe’s top table
Whatever the protestations from Manchester United about the relationship between Ruben Amorim and the higher-ups not collapsing like a house of cards, clearly something was not right. The head coach became increasingly open that something was amiss after chats with Jason Wilcox. The director of football has not covered himself in glory at the club, but he and the chief executive, Omar Berrada, remain while another head coach departs. Conversations with potential replacements need to centre on everyone being on the same page. There were disagreements over tactics and recruitment, which created tension Old Trafford could ill afford. Nothing will be fixed overnight, meaning the incoming coach needs explicit guidelines on what is required and must offer a clear path on how tactics and style will meet expectations. Season-by-season ambitions should be set, allowing everyone to be held accountable, instead of the blame being foisted on one man.
Leaving out Kobbie Mainoo stifled the midfielder’s development and reduced his value. He was not playing in a European Championship final 18 months ago by accident; he is one of the continent’s most talented youngsters. Casemiro is 34 in February and will not be able to perform in the Premier League for much longer, whereas Mainoo could be the centre point of United’s midfield for a decade. Rather than highlighting Mainoo’s perceived weaknesses, his strengths need to be celebrated and he should be an integral part of the XI. He loves to get on the ball and United turn it over too quickly. The 20-year-old brings dynamism and progresses the team up the pitch, something that should be valued after lengthy periods of meekness. Mainoo is yet to start this season in the Premier League and is unwilling to sign a new contract in the foreseeable future because of his lack of opportunities. This needs to change for the good of him and the club. United should revel in having a local lad who is a potential leader.
