Video: Amorim reacts to “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt

Manchester United’s tense 4-4 draw with Bournemouth on Monday took an unexpected turn off the pitch, as Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames—familiar to TV fans from Love Island—showed up courtside in a bold “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt.

Video link: Amorim reacts to Free Kobbie Mainoo T-shirt

The garment fueled speculation about the 20-year-old midfielder’s frustrating lack of starts under manager Ruben Amorim, with Mainoo frequently benched despite his starring role in prior seasons.

Fans and media quickly latched onto the stunt as a public cry for more playing time, wondering if it might strain relations at Old Trafford or prompt internal discipline.

The buzz carried into Amorim’s pre-Aston Villa press conference, where a journalist pressed him on the viral moment.

Amorim dismissed any fallout with characteristic calm, making it clear family antics won’t sway his decisions.

“No, it wasn’t Kobbie who wore the T-shirt,” he said.

“He’s not going to start because of the shirt, but isn’t going on the bench because of the shirt. He will play if we feel like he’s the right guy to play.”

The Portuguese boss doubled down on his merit-based approach, brushing off external pressure.

“I am not going to do something to Kobbie because someone in his family is doing something,” Amorim added.

“He will be the same: if he is the right guy who plays, then he’ll go out there and play.”

Mainoo, who’s been with United for over a year, remains a fan favourite amid the club’s rocky campaign.

Whether this family flashpoint lights a fire under him—or fades into footnote—could shape his path as United eye a rebound against Villa.
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