John Obi Mikel claims Ruben Amorim has turned one Man United player into a ‘shadow’ of his former self

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John Obi Mikel believes Ruben Amorim is turning one member of the Manchester United squad into a “shadow” of his former self as the Red Devils continue to struggle.

Man United suffered their third defeat of this Premier League campaign on Saturday against Brentford as the pressure continues to mount on Amorim and his future.

It was a difficult outing for the 20-time champions, which led Gary Neville to claim that the Man United squad doubted Amorim’s system.

Bruno Fernandes’ performance led to frustration from fans as he struggled to make an impact on the game. He also missed a penalty to draw the team level when the game was at 2-1.

However, it was one other member of the Man United squad whom Mikel believes Amorim is wasting and failing to get the best out of right now.

John Obi Mikel believes Kobbie Mainoo ‘looked heavy’ against Brentford

Kobbie Mainoo has struggled to make much of an impact under Amorim, despite the incredible potential he has previously shown as a footballer.

The England international came off the bench during the 3-1 loss against Brentford, which led Mikel to question what he saw on the latest Obi One Podcast.

“And again, I watched this kid, Kobbie Mainoo. My word. What has happened to Kobbie Mainoo? What has happened to that kid?

“What has happened to that kid? Doesn’t fancy him. I watched him when he came on the pitch.

“A shadow of who he was when he burst into the scene. A shadow of who he was, Kobbie Mainoo. Was at fault for the second goal or third goal.

“He looked heavy. He looked like he doesn’t know what he’s doing, Kobbie Mainoo. And when the manager doesn’t believe in you, when the manager doesn’t have the belief and trust you, that happens.”

Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford has been a major talking point in recent months, despite previously being viewed as the next big star for Man United’s midfield.

TBR Football revealed that Mainoo is ready to leave Man United after an agreement over a new contract wasn’t met, but underwhelming performances won’t be helping his case.

Kobbie Mainoo’s stats against Brentford showed he struggled to impact the game

Mainoo was only given 24 minutes against Brentford after replacing Manuel Ugarte in the second half, but he struggled to make an impact.

Man United didn’t have a foothold in the game, and the lack of control cost them as Brentford were clinical in their attacks.

Mainoo only made 26 touches throughout his entire performance, managing one tackle and four passes into the final third of the pitch.

His defensive efforts weren’t overly impressive either. Mainoo committed one foul and didn’t win any of his attempted aerial duels, summarizing what Mikel witnessed.