Mainoo was omitted from the starting lineup for the second consecutive match, having also remained unused in last week’s clash with Arsenal. ..Continue Reading
In that game, as United searched for a late equaliser, Amorim opted to introduce the defensively solid Manuel Ugarte instead of the young England international.
The same substitution pattern unfolded at Craven Cottage, with Ugarte replacing Mason Mount in the 69th minute.
At the time, United were ahead, making the decision more understandable—but even after Fulham leveled through Emile Smith Rowe, Amorim chose not to turn to Mainoo, who has previously delivered crucial goals in late-game situations.
With just minutes remaining, Amorim made two defensive changes, bringing on Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven for Luke Shaw and Leny Yoro.
When asked about Mainoo’s absence, the manager explained that the 20-year-old is currently vying for a spot in midfield against none other than club captain Bruno Fernandes.
Asked why Mainoo has not had any minutes yet, Amorim said in post-match press conference: ‘He is fighting for the position now with Bruno.
‘And I change to two midfielders, I left Mason Mount there because we want to score a goal and when I change I felt the team needs to have one holding midfielder near Bruno.
‘So he just needs to fight for the position with Bruno like it should be at Manchester United.’
After a stellar debut season at Old Trafford, Mainoo faced a more challenging second year with Manchester United during the 2024–25 campaign.
Since Ruben Amorim took charge in November, Mainoo was named in the starting lineup for 12 Premier League fixtures, but was frequently overlooked in key matches throughout United’s journey to the Europa League final.
He was not included in the starting eleven for either leg against Lyon or Athletic Bilbao, even though he netted a vital late equaliser against Lyon.
In the final against Tottenham, Mainoo was only given a brief cameo, entering the pitch in the closing minute of the match.
