In a rare display of sensible decision-making, Manchester United have finally awarded Kobbie Mainoo the contract he deserves. However, this move has left certain senior figures at Old Trafford looking rather embarrassed.
Wilcox's Tribute Raises Questions
Jason Wilcox, United's technical director, praised Mainoo in a club statement, calling him "one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world." He highlighted Mainoo's technical ability, professionalism, and humility. But his comments beg a crucial question: if Mainoo was so valuable, why did Wilcox and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe do nothing while former manager Ruben Amorim sidelined him?
Amorim's Treatment of Mainoo
Under Amorim this season, Mainoo started no league games and played just 171 minutes in the Premier League. He was also made a scapegoat after United's embarrassing Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town. The situation became so dire that Mainoo considered a loan move to Napoli.
Amorim's approach was a disgrace, but it also exposed a weakness in United's leadership. They failed to protect one of their most valuable assets, allowing a struggling manager to damage the progress of a bright young talent.
Ultimately, it took Michael Carrick's intervention to bring common sense back. But the club should never have let it get to this point.
