"Ruben Amorim loves this kind of player" - Fabrizio Romano claims new Manchester United coach will build team around 2 players
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claimed that newly-appointed Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim would love to build his team around the wonderkid pairing of Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro. The 31-year-old opined the two youngsters would help the Portuguese tactician take the club in the 'direction' he wants.
A product of United's famed academy system, Mainoo announced himself on the big stage in the 2023-24 season. Stepping in as a replacement for previously injured Brazilian star Casemiro, he has dominated the midfield in his 44 senior appearances for United thus far.
On the other hand, Yoro was signed from Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille for a reported £52 million fee in the summer of 2024. He is widely regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects of his generation, drawing comparisons to the likes of William Saliba and Raphael Varane.
Unfortunately for the Red Devils, both players have not been at full fitness through the first few months of the 2024-25 campaign. Yoro suffered an ankle fracture in a pre-season friendly and is yet to play a competitive game for the club, while Mainoo is struggling with hamstring problems.
Despite the issues, Romano has claimed that Amorim will be eager to work his tactics and plan his team around the star young pairing. In his latest YouTube video, he said (via United District):
"Ruben Amorim loves this kind of player. So, Mainoo and Leny Yoro, this sort of player is exactly the direction he wants to take with Manchester United."
Mainoo has made nine appearances (eight starts) this season, but is expected to be sidelined for a few more weeks. Meanwhile, Yoro has returned to first-team training, and is in line to make his competitive debut for Manchester United.
"He is a crucial player" - Fabrizio Romano delivers update on Kobbie Mainoo's contract situation at Manchester United
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano delivered an update about the contract situation of Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo. The transfer expert claimed that the 19-year-old's deal is an 'important topic' for the Red Devils, and that the negotiations between the parties 'remain positive'.
Mainoo's current contract at Old Trafford lasts until the 2026-27 campaign. However, the club is believed to be intent on locking their young talent down on a longer contract and are reportedly involved in conversations with his entourage.
In his latest YouTube video, Romano confirmed United's eagerness to offer a new deal to Mainoo. The 31-year-old said (via United District, at 6:53 in the video below):
"Man Utd have not forgotten about the situation of Kobbie Mainoo. I told you that for United it was important to try to advance on contract talks. United are still working and now there's a new manager (Ruben Amorim) hwho will talk with and inform Kobbie about his new idea. Mainoo is a crucial player for the owners, directors, and staff."
"The new contract of Mainoo will be an important topic. United are working on it. We're not yet at the final stages but the conversation remains positive on both player and club sides," Romano added.
Up next, Manchester United will take on Ipswich Town in the Premier League on Sunday, November 24. It will also be Amorim's first game in charge of the club.