Kobbie Mainoo’s limited game time at Manchester United became a talking point again on Monday night after his brother wore a protest T-shirt during the 4-4 Premier League draw with Bournemouth.
Former Love Island contestant Jordan Mainoo-Hames was spotted in the stands wearing a black shirt emblazoned with the words “Free Kobbie Mainoo”, a message aimed at highlighting the midfielder’s continued absence from the starting XI under head coach Ruben Amorim.
Protest trgets Mainoo’s bench role
The message followed growing frustration among sections of the fanbase over Mainoo’s reduced involvement this season.
The 20-year-old once again started on the bench as Amorim stuck with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in midfield.
Mainoo was introduced in the 60th minute with United trailing 3-2 and received loud applause from supporters, proving his popularity at Old Trafford despite limited minutes.
Reduced minutes fuel transfer talk
Mainoo has played just 302 Premier League minutes this season and is yet to start a league game, a sharp contrast to his regular role last term.
The situation has sparked loan interest from clubs including Napoli and Chelsea, although United are keen to retain him with several players set to depart for AFCON duty.
The midfielder’s only start this campaign came in the Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town.
Amorim addresses squad frustrations
Speaking on Mainoo’s situation, Amorim stressed that the team comes first and urged patience, insisting he is open to dialogue with the player.
He also warned that leaving Old Trafford does not always guarantee improved fortunes, referencing the struggles of other academy graduates elsewhere.
Despite the off-field noise, Mainoo impressed in his cameo against Bournemouth and could feature more prominently when United travel to Aston Villa this weekend, with Casemiro suspended.