Kobbie Mainoo's three options available to him as Ruben Amorim teases Man United move

Kobbie Mainoo shone as a No. 10 under Ruben Amorim in Manchester United's 2-0 victory against FCSB, but what is the prodigy's ideal position?

The 19-year-old English talent rose to prominence at Old Trafford last season under Erik ten Hag and, after featuring in England's Euro 2024 final run, returned to the Red Devils a key player. However, with coaching changes and a new system now in place, Mainoo has struggled to secure regular playing time - and rumours have swirled that he could depart the club.

In Amorim's wing-back setup, Mainoo can fill one of three roles: a defensive No. 6, a deep-lying No. 8, and two advanced No. 10s. The teenager struggled when playing as the first two, with Amorim admitting he has found it tough. Yet, in Europe, Mainoo impressed as a No. 10. We examine where the young English talent can fit in under Amorim and the implications for his team-mates.

With the youngster's United future uncertain, Amorim experimented with a new approach in Europe, which appeared to pay off massively.

"Now more as a 10, you can feel that he [Mainoo] was so free, playing the ball near the box is really good, the small connections," Amorim commented after the match. "We need time to work with the players and understand the best positions for them.

"Kobbie Mainoo played in a different position, with more freedom, more near the box. He's so technical, he can change the game there. So, I think it's a good position for him, we will see. But I'm happy to see Kobbie enjoy the game more."

Mainoo previously had limited opportunities to play with such attacking freedom under former manager Ten Hag and during the early stages of Amorim's tenure. Nevertheless, he appears at ease in this role and admitted it delights him.

"I