Data shows why Ruben Amorim must unleash ‘incredible’ Man United star against Chelsea
Manchester United fell to another miserable defeat in the Premier League, losing 3-0 against rivals Manchester City on Sunday.
Roy Keane slammed Ruben Amorim following the match, with more questions surfacing about the Portuguese head coach.
Erling Haaland wowed Gary Neville with his performance, and his brace, combined with Phil Foden’s opener, secured all three points for Man City.
Man United’s defeat to Man City condemned the visitors to their worst start to a top-flight campaign in 33 years, with many pundits suggesting Amorim’s position is rapidly becoming untenable.
Data reveals why Kobbie Mainoo must start against Chelsea
Amorim’s predecessor, Erik ten Hag, once said: “It was really incredible to watch Kobbie [Mainoo] at his age,” when discussing the talent of arguably United’s greatest academy product since Marcus Rashford.
Fast-forward twelve months from when Ten Hag was sacked at the club, and Amorim is being criticised by Gary Lineker for his treatment of Mainoo.
Mainoo was impressive during his substitute appearance against Man City, with Statman Dave showcasing the output of the Carrington graduate on X.
Kobbie Mainoo won every ground duel (3/3) and completed every pass (18/18) in the 28 minutes he played vs. Manchester City.
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 15, 2025
Should he start against Chelsea? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/Muhf8GIMfZ
Kobbie Mainoo can bring calmness to Man United’s chaotic midfield
When watching Mainoo play, it’s difficult not to be wowed by the composure and confidence that the 20-year-old exudes.
Some of United’s biggest moments in the last two and a half seasons have come through Mainoo, with his winning goal in the FA Cup in 2024 a particularly fond memory for many of the fanbase.
Yet, Amorim hasn’t been enthused by Mainoo’s ability in the same way that Ten Hag was before him, and it has led many to question what more the young England international can do to break into Amorim’s side.
| Kobbie Mainoo 2023-24 Premier League season | |
| Games | 25 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Key passes per 90 | 0.77 |
| Passes into the final third per 90 | 2.73 |
| Shot creating actions per 90 | 1.87 |
The calmness that Mainoo brings in possession would be a key asset to United’s midfield, while his energy would cure United’s issues with getting overexposed in the middle of the park.
Most of Mainoo’s redeeming qualities are conveniently a lot of the failing marks of Amorim’s midfield structure, but as the tide continues to turn against the Portuguese head coach, the Stockport-born midfielder will surely feel he’s due a start in the near future.