Kobbie Mainoo Returns to Training as Manchester United Begin Life After Ruben Amorim

Manchester United received a timely boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Burnley as young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo returned to full training on Tuesday. His comeback comes at a critical moment for the club, which is navigating a period of transition following the sacking of head coach Ruben Amorim earlier this week.

Mainoo, 20, has been sidelined since mid-December after picking up a calf injury ahead of the away fixture against Aston Villa. His last appearance came in the dramatic 4-4 draw against Bournemouth on December 15, where he featured as a substitute. Since then, the England international has missed league matches against Newcastle United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Leeds United.

His return to the training pitch has raised hopes that he could be involved in United’s upcoming league match against Burnley at Turf Moor. While Mainoo’s fitness will be assessed closer to kick-off, his presence in training suggests he is edging closer to match readiness after weeks on the sidelines.

Manchester United’s on-field preparations have been overshadowed by major off-field developments. The club parted ways with Amorim after just 14 months in charge, following a reported breakdown in relations with the board. The decision came days after Amorim publicly criticised the club’s hierarchy following the draw against Leeds United, remarks that are understood to have accelerated his exit.

Despite the abrupt managerial change, Amorim’s tenure included guiding United to the UEFA Europa League final last season. At the time of his departure, the club sits sixth in the Premier League table with 31 points. United’s leadership believes a change in direction is necessary to stabilise performances and maximise results during the remainder of the campaign.

Former United midfielder and academy coach Darren Fletcher has taken over as interim manager and led Tuesday’s training session. Speaking ahead of the Burnley match, Fletcher confirmed that Mainoo’s condition would be closely monitored before a final call is made on his inclusion in the matchday squad.

“Kobbie trained today, but we’ll see how he comes through to decide whether he’s going to be in the squad,” Fletcher said, indicating a cautious approach to the youngster’s return.

United are also expecting reinforcements in midfield, with Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount both nearing a return from injury. Fernandes had been recovering from a hamstring issue, while Mount was forced off at half-time in the recent defeat to Newcastle.

However, the club continues to deal with defensive absences. Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire remain unavailable, while several squad members are away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.

As Manchester United begin a new chapter under interim leadership, the potential return of Mainoo could provide much-needed energy and balance in midfield. His recovery not only boosts options ahead of the Burnley fixture but also offers optimism during a turbulent phase for the club, as they attempt to steady their season both on and off the pitch.