Paul Scholes ‘Fumes’ Over Kobbie Mainoo’s Role Under Ruben Amorim as Online Comments Spark Debate
A set of remarks circulating online and attributed to Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has ignited heated debate among fans regarding the development and usage of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo under manager Ruben Amorim. In the widely shared comments, Scholes expresses frustration over Mainoo’s limited minutes, questioning why one of the club’s brightest homegrown talents has not been given a consistent starting role.
According to the viral quote, Scholes allegedly criticized Amorim for publicly calling Mainoo a “starter” while continuing to bring the young midfielder off the bench in every Premier League appearance so far. The remarks claim that this inconsistency “winds [him] up,” especially given the club’s recent struggles on the pitch. He reportedly pointed out that if United were performing well, rotating a young player might be understandable — but under poor form, leaving Mainoo sidelined felt “unjustifiable.”
The comments also suggest Scholes believes Mainoo’s talent merits a leading role. In the viral quote, he claims the 20-year-old “takes the p*** out of Casemiro every day in training” and is “brilliant,” insinuating that Mainoo has outperformed senior midfielders behind the scenes. Scholes allegedly goes as far as to suggest Mainoo “may have to leave” if the situation does not improve, arguing that United should not allow a top academy graduate to stagnate.
Although unconfirmed, the sentiments reflect concerns shared by many supporters. Mainoo, one of the club’s most promising prospects in recent years, earned widespread praise last season for his maturity, technical ability, and composure beyond his age. Fans have become increasingly vocal on social media about their desire to see him become a regular starter — especially as United’s midfield has struggled for control and continuity.
Ruben Amorim, appointed with the goal of modernizing United’s style and rebuilding with youth, has publicly praised Mainoo on several occasions. However, his decision to ease the midfielder back into matches cautiously has prompted mixed reactions. Some argue that protecting a young player from overexposure is wise, particularly given the physical demands of Premier League football. Others believe that Mainoo’s skill set — press resistance, vision, and tempo control — is exactly what United’s midfield lacks.
The alleged Scholes comments have amplified the debate. As one of the most respected midfielders in the club’s history, Scholes’ views often influence supporter sentiment. Yet without official confirmation of the remarks, discussion has largely centered not on whether Scholes truly said them, but on the underlying issue they highlight: Should Mainoo already be one of United’s first names on the teamsheet?
What remains clear is this: Kobbie Mainoo’s development is becoming a focal point of United’s season. Whether the club chooses to accelerate his role or maintain a cautious approach, the spotlight on the young midfielder is only growing — and every decision Amorim makes will be closely scrutinized by fans, pundits, and former players alike
