“It feels like he doesn’t know what he’s on the pitch. You need to use him in a different position or just get him out of the squad” – Graeme Souness advises Ruben Amorim as he identifies a Manchester United player who ‘lacks understanding of his role’

Kobbie Mainoo Needs to Improve Defensively to Thrive in Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United System, Says Graeme Souness

Liverpool legend Graeme Souness believes Kobbie Mainoo must enhance the defensive aspect of his game if he hopes to succeed under Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.

Souness claims the young midfielder still lacks an awareness of defensive danger, which could hinder his development. Mainoo, who had a breakthrough campaign in 2023/24, playing a crucial role in United’s FA Cup victory and England’s Euro 2024 run, has struggled to replicate that form this season.

With United currently sitting 13th in the Premier League after a string of poor results, Mainoo has been among those underperforming. Amorim recently acknowledged that the 19-year-old has been struggling defensively, prompting the manager to deploy him in a more advanced role—a tactical adjustment that has yet to yield positive results.

Mainoo’s performances as a striker and attacking midfielder in recent matches have been underwhelming, with his displays in the defeat to Crystal Palace and FA Cup win over Leicester drawing criticism.

Souness, writing in his Daily Mail column, noted that Amorim’s concerns about Mainoo’s defensive contributions were unsurprising. He compared Mainoo to Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, arguing that Wharton has a better grasp of defensive responsibilities.

“Mainoo stands out because he is excellent on the ball, moving fluidly across the pitch, but he hasn’t yet developed a strong sense of defensive positioning,” Souness explained. “He tends to vacate midfield too easily and hasn’t fully grasped the discipline required for the role. However, at just 19, he has time to improve with the right coaching and guidance.”

With United facing numerous challenges this season, improving Mainoo’s defensive awareness is just one of the many issues Amorim must address. The Red Devils’ next test comes against Tottenham next Sunday as they aim to turn their season around.