Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has criticised manager Ruben Amorim for his handling of young talent Kobbie Mainoo, insisting the club has a “top, top player” who hasn’t been given the respect he deserves.
Mainoo, 20, has struggled for regular game time this season, featuring just twice in the Premier League as a substitute against Burnley and Manchester City. His limited involvement has sparked debate over Amorim’s selection decisions and the midfielder’s future at Old Trafford.
Butt Questions Amorim’s Decisions
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Butt expressed his disappointment at how Mainoo has been treated despite his breakthrough into both the Manchester United and England setups.
"I don't think he's been respected the way he should've been Kobbie. He's a young boy, I get that, he's gone off the boil a little bit, I get that, but he's flew onto the scene, he's playing for England - he's a top, top player.
"Any club would want him, and he's been brushed to the side. Now his mindset might be - you're bringing me on in a derby where we're getting battered and I'm on my own on this football pitch."
Pep Guardiola's reaction to Kobbie Mainoo's nutmeg 😮 pic.twitter.com/dSUrfzGI7a
— Premier League (@premierleague) September 17, 2025
Newcastle Monitoring Mainoo’s Situation
Mainoo’s lack of opportunities has already drawn interest from elsewhere. According to talkSPORT, Newcastle United are monitoring the midfielder’s situation and could make a move in the January transfer window.
The Magpies are reportedly keen to offer the England international a fresh start, after a summer transfer failed to materialise. With Eddie Howe a known admirer, Mainoo’s future could be one of the key storylines in the upcoming window.
