As Man United failed to strike from open play for the second consecutive week, Kobbie Mainoo was an unused substitute.
Kobbie Mainoo is engaging in a competition with Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Manchester United, for a position in the starting lineup, according to Ruben Amorim.
In United’s 1-1 draw at Fulham, Mainoo was inactive for the second consecutive week, as Amorim introduced four defensive players in the second half.
Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee remained in the dugout, and the only straightforward attacking change made by the United head coach was the introduction of new striker Benjamin Sesko.
As the game remained goalless, Mason Mount returned to central midfield after Casemiro’s substitution. Mount was replaced by defensive midfielder Manuel Ugarte in the 69th minute, with United leading 1-0.
Mainoo, 20, is anticipated to make his first appearance of the season in the League Cup second round match against Grimsby Town on Wednesday. However, he has only started in 15 of Amorim’s 44 matches as manager.
Fernandes is an automatic selection in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, which prioritizes an attacking and defensive midfielder.
Amorim stated that Mainoo is currently engaged in a competition with Bruno for the position. “I also replace two midfielders.” I allowed Mason Mount to play in that position because we are interested in scoring a goal. When I made the change, I felt that the team needed to revert to a single holding midfielder in close proximity to Bruno.
“Therefore, he (Mainoo) must compete with Bruno for the position, as it should be at Manchester United.” [Occasionally] he will engage in a game with Bruno; however, at present, he is contesting Bruno for the position during training.
United has scored one goal from open play in four matches since Rasmus Hojlund was removed from the club during the preseason. Sesko emerged in the second half, prompting Amorim to field a striker-less team for the second consecutive Premier League match. However, United’s sole goal was an own goal by Rodrigo Muniz.
Both of United’s five preseason matches were won with Hojlund starting at the front. Amorim denied the assertion that the players have been compelled to adjust to a new approach in the absence of a center forward.
“I believe it is a common occurrence when one reaches this level,” he continued. “Cunha is capable of operating as both a striker and a ten.” I observed that we are occasionally more robust in our approach to play during these most recent encounters with Mason Mount.
“Consequently, we will adjust our strategy in accordance with the outcome and the opponent’s performance in order to secure victories.”
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