Paul Scholes Criticizes Ruben Amorim Over Kobbie Mainoo’s Role

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has publicly criticized current manager Ruben Amorim regarding the treatment of young player Kobbie Mainoo. This latest outburst comes after Mainoo remained an unused substitute during United’s recent 2-2 draw against West Ham. Scholes expressed his frustration over the 20-year-old’s minimal game time, with Mainoo having logged only 171 minutes of action in the Premier League this season.

Amorim, who took over managerial duties at United in October 2023, previously praised Mainoo, describing him as a key player in the squad. “I see him as a starter like the other players,” Amorim stated last Friday. He emphasized his desire to win matches without favoring a specific player, indicating that all selections are made with winning in mind.

In a harsh response on social media, Scholes remarked, “Bulls***. The kid is being ruined, not being played in a team that can’t control a game of football.” He lamented the potential departure of homegrown talent, suggesting that it may be best for Mainoo to seek opportunities elsewhere. Although Scholes later deleted his post, the sentiment echoed his history of influencing managerial stability at the club.

Scholes has a track record of vocal criticism toward United bosses, with his comments often seen as a barometer of their job security. Following a devastating 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in May 2024, he indicated that Erik ten Hag‘s position was precarious. Despite the team winning the FA Cup shortly after, Ten Hag was unable to maintain his post and was replaced by Amorim within a few months.

“Tonight almost felt like a final nail in the coffin,” Scholes reflected after the Crystal Palace loss. He pointed to a lack of effort and tactical knowledge among the players as contributing factors to the defeat. His comments suggested that, while Ten Hag had the potential for an extended tenure, the atmosphere around the club had shifted unfavorably.

Historically, Scholes has not shied away from criticizing managerial decisions. During Ralf Rangnick‘s interim management in the 2021/22 season, Scholes remarked on the disparity in coaching quality between United and their opponents. Following a lackluster performance, he questioned Rangnick’s appointment, emphasizing the need for a proper coach capable of developing the team’s talent.

Despite the internal turmoil, there is a glimmer of stability for Amorim. Sir Jim Ratcliffe suggested in October that Amorim’s performance would be reviewed after three years, potentially providing the manager with a buffer to implement his strategies. Currently, Manchester United sits in eighth place in the Premier League, having lost only once in their last eight matches, a positive indicator ahead of their upcoming clash against Wolves.

As the situation develops, the focus will remain on whether Amorim can integrate Mainoo into the starting lineup and if he can steer the club back to the upper echelons of the league. Scholes’ remarks highlight the ongoing scrutiny and pressure surrounding Manchester United and its management, a narrative that continues to be shaped by former players and fans alike.