Ruben Amorim confirms that one Manchester United player has now stopped reporting to training.
Manchester United’s turbulent season has taken yet another twist, with head coach Ruben Amorim confirming that a young midfielder has refused to turn up for training in the aftermath of the heated 1–1 draw against West Ham. Multiple insiders have now revealed that the player is Kobbie Mainoo, who has become increasingly frustrated with his role, minutes, and treatment under the Portuguese manager.
What was once a promising relationship between Amorim and Mainoo has now deteriorated drastically. After several days of whispers around Carrington, Amorim finally spoke during a private meeting with the club’s sporting directors, revealing that Mainoo “has refused to report for training ever since the West Ham incident.” His admission has sparked major concern about the atmosphere in the squad and whether he still has full control of the dressing room.
Those close to the team say the real conflict erupted immediately after the final whistle against West Ham. The disappointing draw angered many players, but Mainoo was particularly upset. He felt sidelined by Amorim’s tactical choices — especially the decision to start Ugarte ahead of him, a selection that has been a growing source of tension. Inside sources claim that Amorim confronted Mainoo aggressively in the dressing room, accusing him of lacking focus and professionalism. The exchange quickly escalated, with both men reportedly saying things “that cannot be taken back,” according to a member of the club’s support staff.
Mainoo left Old Trafford that night without addressing Amorim or any of the coaching staff and has not been seen in training since.
During internal discussions, Amorim made it clear that he considers Mainoo’s absence unacceptable. He reminded the board that he has already taken disciplinary action against other players this season, including Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford, and stressed that he is ready to apply the same firm measures again. His comments suggest that the issue has gone far beyond tactics — it has become a test of authority.
If Mainoo continues to stay away, club analysts believe he could face internal suspension or be removed from matchday squads entirely. INEOS, now deeply involved in the club’s football operations, is keeping a close eye on the situation and may intervene if the standoff threatens team morale or the long-term development of one of United’s brightest academy graduates.
United are already battling injuries, inconsistent performances, and questions over Amorim’s tactical system. Losing Mainoo — even for a short time — could prove damaging. Beyond the on-pitch impact, the episode sends a troubling message to the squad: if a player openly refuses to train, it challenges the authority of the manager in front of everyone.
Inside the dressing room, players are reportedly split. Some believe Mainoo has every right to feel wronged, while others support Amorim’s strict stance. One senior player is quoted as saying, “No matter how good you are, you still have to show up. Nobody is bigger than the club.” Another player, however, sympathised with Mainoo, insisting that “the situation after the West Ham game was mishandled by the manager.”
This rift is already causing unease within the camp.
Fans have also reacted strongly online. Many believe Mainoo should be supported and shielded, rather than criticised so publicly. Others worry the club is falling into the same pattern of internal chaos seen under previous managers. But a section of supporters continue to back Amorim’s strict approach, arguing that discipline must come first.
As the crisis grows, INEOS is expected to request a full report and attempt to mediate before things worsen. If Mainoo returns to training soon, the situation may be salvaged. But if he continues to stay away, United could be forced into a major decision by January — either sanction the player or confront deeper issues around Amorim’s leadership.
For now, the situation remains tense, and the uncertainty around Old Trafford only deepens.
