Gary Neville, the former Manchester United stalwart, has expressed concerns that the club’s current manager, Ruben Amorim, isn’t entirely convinced about Kobbie Mainoo’s role as a longstanding solution in midfield. United are set to kick off their Premier League campaign against last season’s runners-up, Arsenal, at the historic Old Trafford this Sunday.
While the Red Devils have bolstered their attacking line-up with the acquisitions of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, their midfield remains a looming dilemma. Amorim is reportedly keen on reinforcing this area, targeting Brighton’s Carlos Baleba as the prime candidate before the transfer window closes.
Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football, Neville noted the midfield’s current form is “worrying” as Amorim appears not entirely “on board” with relying on the academy graduate, Mainoo, in a pivotal role. The United legend said, “The midfield does look worrying with Ugarte, Casemiro, and Mainoo in the fray.”
Neville continued, “Kobbie Mainoo has physically transformed. He appears stronger and more composed than before. Initially, I believed he’d be integral to United’s midfield for the foreseeable future. However, it seems the manager may harbour reservations.”
In addition, Neville estimates an upward trajectory for United if they secure a solid midfielder and a steadfast goalkeeper. “A new goalkeeper and midfielder could see us finishing fifth or sixth, otherwise, eighth or ninth seems likely. The role of Manchester United goalkeeper remains incredibly testing under immense scrutiny,” he stated, highlighting the roles of potential candidates like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Emi Martinez.
Wayne Rooney, another United icon, chimed in, urging the club to target a midfielder capable of dictating play and aiding ball progression. On Match of The Day, Rooney remarked, “Bringing in a strong midfield presence would complement Bruno Fernandes, potentially enabling him to operate more offensively. The recent signings have been promising, but additional reinforcements are essential.”
As anticipation grows ahead of their Premier League opener, Manchester United supporters will be eager to see how these concerns and potential signings play out in the coming weeks.
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