Kobbie Mainoo at number 10 means Man United must find a new partner for Manuel Ugarte in the summer - opinion

Kobbie Mainoo starred as Manchester United beat FCSB 2-0 in the Europa League yesterday.

He has often played alongside Manuel Ugarte in manager Ruben Amorim’s two-man central midfield but featured as the left-sided number 10 against the Romanian side.

The England international looked comfortable in that position, having played there during his academy days and before Amorim’s arrival.

He combined well with left wing-back Tyrell Malacia, made progressive runs into the penalty area and created chances for his teammates.

He created the opening goal, sliding a pass into Diogo Dalot at the far post before getting on the scoresheet with a precise strike.

The English midfielder is the first Man United player to score and assist in his first European start since 2004. Wayne Rooney is the last to achieve the feat.

He registered two passes and created two big chances – the most of any United player. He also completed four dribbles, a tally not bettered by his teammates.

The academy graduate had a good defensive display, engaging in 17 ground duels, seven of which he won. He also made one clearance and two tackles.

Amorim says the number 10 role is ‘ a good position’ for the English midfielder, giving him ‘more freedom’ and allowing him to get ‘near the box’.

His comments indicate that Mainoo may continue to play as the number 10, raising the question about who will partner Ugarte in the central midfield.

Bruno Fernandes can play next to Ugarte, but he is a perfect fit for the number 10 role

Toby Collyer is another option, but he is inexperienced. Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, the other alternatives, are expected to leave soon.

United must sign a new central midfielder in the summer to allow Mainoo and Fernandes to play as the number 10s permanently.

Stats from transfermarkt.com & OptaJoe.

Article written by Henry Thornton .