RUBEN AMORIM has stressed that Kobbie Mainoo must demonstrate his worth to be considered among Manchester United’s top earners.

Mainoo’s rapid ascent has put him in the spotlight—England international star Mainoo—is attracting interest from Chelsea—but he remains one of the club’s lower-paid players, seeking an increase to approximately £200,000 per week.

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Amorim, preparing for his debut in the FA Cup against Arsenal today, acknowledges that the 19-year-old midfielder is a vital player for Old Trafford.

Nonetheless, the United manager insists Mainoo has much to learn, asserting: “Kobbie has shown significant progress in his recent performances.

“However, you might view him as a finished product—he is not. While he possesses talent, there is considerable potential for him to further improve.”

Mainoo’s last 18 months have been remarkable, with his existing contract of £20,000-per-week set to last until 2027.

He kicked off the previous season with the Red Devils’ Under-21s and, following a series of injuries, earned a spot in the first team by November, solidifying his place as a regular after showcasing commendable performances.

Mainoo concluded an impressive breakout year by scoring the pivotal goal in United’s FA Cup victory over City and was integral to nearly all of England’s Euro appearances.

However, his standing in Amorim’s starting lineup has fluctuated, with summerManuel Ugarte competing for the defensive midfield position.

The United boss acknowledged that Uruguay midfielder Ugarte’s impressive performances—particularly during last Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool—are now creating benchmarks for his teammates.

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Amorim elaborated: “Manu is a confident player who excels with the ball, maneuvering adeptly.

“His position is crucial for the team, setting a high standard, and he is continuously developing—yet all players are advancing.”

Watch Kobbie Mainoo surprise three young Man Utd supporters with a thoughtful gift in this heartwarming hidden camera video.

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In other updates, SunSport has revealed that Amorim has assured his squad that no players will be sold without his express permission.

The Portuguese manager addressed the first-team players amid rumors that the club’s challenging financial status might require considering player sales.

Some squad members have allegedly expressed concern regarding the news, seeking clarity from Amorim about their future roles.

Amorim reassured the players that while he might consider some offers, no player will be transferred without his consent.

Many might perceive him as the finished article—but he is not.

Ruben Amorim

A source conveyed: “Amorim effectively communicated, ‘If I want to keep you, you will remain. Therefore, strive to impress me—with a strong performance, if you want to be a United player, do just that.’”

On Friday, Amorim acknowledged that United must refine its scouting and acquisition strategies, expressing his desire for Mainoo to stay at Old Trafford.

He stated: “We must improve our recruitment techniques to identify new talents who can meet the club’s expectations.

“Additionally, it is imperative to enhance our academy, fostering young talents who embody our club’s core values, while also engaging in necessary business to secure the resources essential for team progression.

“Our goal is to retain our best players and progress the club’s development.”

“I am truly pleased with our squad—especially with the academy products.”

“Our main focus remains on keeping our top talents and advancing this club.”

Ruben Amorim

This week, it was revealed that United management may contemplate selling homegrown players, including Mainoo and 20-year-old winger Alejandro Garnacho, to comply with financial regulations.

When specifically asked about his commitment to keeping Mainoo, Amorim responded: “Definitely, my players are truly my favorites, and I wish to retain them.”

“This is indeed a critical juncture for the club; it is challenging, yet I am enthusiastic about the progress Kobbie is making.”