Amorim slammed ’embarrassing’ as Mainoo thrives under Carrick

Former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has come under fresh criticism following Kobbie Mainoo’s resurgence under interim head coach Michael Carrick.

Mainoo, who struggled for regular minutes during Amorim’s tenure, has started all four of United’s recent wins since Carrick took charge, including Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Tottenham.

The 20-year-old midfielder was limited to sporadic appearances earlier in the season as Amorim favoured a rigid 3-4-3 system that failed to accommodate the academy graduate.

Amorim was dismissed in January after a difficult 14-month spell at Old Trafford that saw United finish 15th in the Premier League and lose the Europa League final to Tottenham.

His tenure was also marked by public disputes with the club’s hierarchy and comments describing his squad as “maybe the worst” in the club’s history.

Following Mainoo’s latest performance, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said the midfielder’s form reflected poorly on Amorim.

“Everybody was confused with what was happening under Ruben Amorim,” Wright said on Premier League World.

“To see Kobbie come in now and show that level of quality, it’s very embarrassing for Amorim, if we’re being honest. This is a Manchester United youth product who wasn’t given the opportunity and was very close to leaving.”

Mainoo regains prominence

Mainoo had been a regular under former manager Erik ten Hag but fell out of favour under Amorim, prompting the player to consider a loan move last summer.

Clubs including Napoli expressed interest, though no deal materialised. Reports later suggested Mainoo was open to a January exit if Amorim had remained in charge.

Under Carrick, United’s midfield has been given greater freedom, with captain Bruno Fernandes recently noting a shift in approach.

Mainoo has benefited from the change, delivering a series of assured displays that have strengthened his standing within the squad.

The midfielder is now expected to sign a new contract with the club, a turnaround in his United future.

United return to action on Tuesday away to West Ham United, with Carrick aiming to secure a fifth consecutive win.

Mainoo’s form has also renewed discussions around a possible England recall, having last featured for the national side in September 2024.