Paul Scholes Critiques Ruben Amorim Over Youth Player Management

Paul Scholes has publicly criticized Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, describing his support for young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as a significant concern. This comes after Mainoo, just 20 years old, has accumulated only 171 minutes of Premier League play this season and remained an unused substitute during the recent draw against West Ham on October 5, 2024. Scholes’ comments highlight a growing frustration among fans regarding the treatment of homegrown talent at the club.

Amorim recently stated, “I see him as a starter like the other players,” referring to Mainoo. He emphasized his goal of winning matches, saying, “I just want to win games. I don’t care who is playing.” Despite this, Scholes took to social media to voice his disagreement. He remarked, “Bulls***. The kid is being ruined, not being played in a team that can’t control a game of football.” Scholes has since deleted his post, but not before it drew considerable attention from fans and pundits alike.

The former United midfielder is known for his candid opinions, particularly regarding the management of the club. His critiques have historically coincided with significant changes in leadership. Most notably, after a disappointing 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace in May 2024, Scholes suggested that Erik ten Hag’s tenure was in jeopardy, stating, “Tonight almost felt like a final nail in the coffin.” This loss came just weeks after United won the FA Cup, illustrating the tumultuous nature of the club’s recent performances.

Following that match, Ten Hag was awarded a new contract but ultimately parted ways with the club by October 2024, paving the way for Amorim’s appointment. Scholes expressed concern over the team’s lack of effort and strategy, stating, “There was a lack of know-how in the team… Manchester United shouldn’t be going there and [losing] 4-0.”

Amorim’s position may benefit from the backing of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who indicated in October that the manager would be evaluated after three years in charge. Currently, Manchester United occupies eighth place in the Premier League, having lost only one of their last eight matches. They look to improve their standing in the league as they prepare for an upcoming match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Scholes has been vocal in the past regarding managerial decisions at United. During Ralf Rangnick’s time as interim manager in the 2021/22 season, he remarked, “One team have got a proper coach, the other team has a sporting director,” criticizing the club’s direction. Following a Champions League exit that season, Scholes reiterated the need for a more qualified coach, stating, “Getting a proper coach for this team is a massive thing.”

As the debate surrounding player management continues, the future of both Mainoo and Amorim remains uncertain. The situation reflects broader concerns about the development of young talents at Manchester United and the club’s ability to manage its resources effectively. With fans keenly interested in the club’s direction, the upcoming matches will be critical in shaping the narrative around Amorim’s tenure and the overall performance of the team.