A T-shirt worn by Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother became one of the most talked-about moments at Old Trafford, even after Manchester United’s dramatic 4–4 Premier League draw with Bournemouth.

Jordan Mainoo-Hames, seated in the stands, was seen wearing a shirt reading “Free Kobbie Mainoo”, a pointed message that has intensified debate around the 20-year-old midfielder’s role under United head coach Ruben Amorim.

The gesture risks inflaming an already delicate situation surrounding Mainoo’s future, with questions growing louder over his lack of Premier League starts this season.

Limited Opportunities Under Amorim

Despite being widely regarded as one of United’s brightest academy graduates, Mainoo has yet to start a league game this campaign. He was introduced in the 61st minute against Bournemouth to loud applause from the home crowd, marking his third-longest Premier League appearance of the season.

So far, Mainoo has logged just 302 league minutes, a figure that has fueled frustration among supporters and those close to the player.

Interest in the England international remains strong. Napoli pursued Mainoo during the summer transfer window and are understood to still be keen, alongside several other European clubs. However, United blocked a move, mindful that replacing him mid-season would be costly given his relatively modest wages.

Amorim Defends His Approach

Amorim has repeatedly pushed back against suggestions that he does not trust Mainoo or undervalues Manchester United’s academy. While he was not asked directly about the T-shirt after Monday’s match, he addressed Mainoo’s situation last week.

The Portuguese coach declined to clarify whether he would allow a January departure but emphasized his openness to dialogue.

“I just want my players happy,” Amorim said. “I understand every individual has their goals and the frustration doesn’t help anybody. I’m completely open to speak with any player.”

He added that while he listens, he will not alter his footballing principles unless he genuinely believes it is necessary.

Wider Academy Tensions

Mainoo is not the only young player affected by Amorim’s recent comments. Prior to the Bournemouth game, the United boss said 18-year-old defender Harry Amass was “struggling in the Championship” at Sheffield Wednesday, despite being named the club’s player of the month.

He also remarked that Chido Obi, another 18-year-old prospect, was “not always a starter” for the Under-21s. The comments are understood to have caused unease among player representatives and senior academy staff.

Both Amass and Obi responded indirectly on social media by highlighting their recent achievements before later deleting their posts.

Mainoo’s Future in the Spotlight

The appearance of the “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt has added a personal dimension to an issue already under intense scrutiny. While United remain determined to retain the midfielder, questions persist over whether limited game time could hinder his development—and potentially his chances of making England’s World Cup squad.

As the season progresses, how Amorim manages Mainoo and other academy talents could prove crucial, not only to United’s results but also to maintaining harmony between the club, its young players, and their representatives.