Kobbie Mainoo's Unconventional Role in Manchester United's Loss Begs More Questions

Kobbie Mainoo was tasked with playing as a number 9 in the game against Crystal Palace, with mixed results.

Manchester United FC v Crystal Palace FC - Premier League
Manchester United FC v Crystal Palace FC - Premier League | Carl Recine/GettyImages

“The idea was not to leave Rasmus [Hojlund] and Joshua [Zirkzee] on the bench. It was to use the characteristics of Kobbie Mainoo to improve the team,” said Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim to reporters following the 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The Red Devils once again suffered a home loss in the league, and they have only won one of their last five home games, and that win was against bottom side Southampton after a late comeback.
This has put more pressure on the Portuguese head coach. Equally puzzling was his decision to play Mainoo as a false number 9.

Ruben Amorim's Questionable Decision To Start Kobbie Mainoo Up Top

Ruben Amorim, Kobbie Mainoo
Ruben Amorim made a bold call over Kobbie Mainoo | Matt McNulty/GettyImages

The English midfielder, who excelled as a number 10 in the 2-0 Europa League win against FCSB last Thursday, was expected to continue in that position on Sunday as well. However, Amorim’s new role for Mainoo left many viewers scratching their heads.

Despite having Hojlund and Zirkzee available, Amorim decided to give Mainoo the nod in a role we haven’t seen him play before. While Manchester United’s start to the game was positive, the pressure could not be sustained.

The Red Devils weren’t able to capitalize on their dominance in possession and ability to get into the final third. The lack of quality up front, which has been mentioned as a weakness of this side, was once again on display.

Despite Mainoo’s ability to link up play and create a good understanding with the likes of Amad Diallo, a clear lack of killer instinct in the final third posed a significant challenge for the side.

After the game, Amorim told BBC Sport that they are trying to improve the team without repeating the mistakes of the past and will strive to find the right balance.

"This market is really hard for clubs to make some deals. I want to improve the team so badly. I know what the team needs. Sometimes it's possible, sometimes it's not. When the window closes, we will see the players that we have," he added.

Manchester United is reportedly interested in securing the services of 19-year-old Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel. However, according to Sky Germany, the deal is not yet complete, as the German club wants a buy-back option or a permanent move.