"Manchester United are reportedly determined to keep both Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo at Old Trafford this January, despite the pair experiencing limited game time under Ruben Amorim. According to The Sun, the Portuguese manager has made it clear to the club hierarchy that he does not want to sanction any exits in the winter window, as he anticipates a challenging period due to player absences caused by the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)."
"Both Zirkzee and Mainoo have found first-team opportunities difficult to come by since Amorim took charge, but their importance to the squad could grow significantly in the coming months. Due to the signings of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, Zirkzee has struggled to find playing time this season. Meanwhile, Mainoo, one of the club's brightest academy graduates, continues to develop under Amorim's guidance."
"The manager's insistence on retaining both players stems from the club's looming AFCON absences. United will be without Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), and Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) for several weeks during the competition. With such departures affecting both attacking and defensive depth, Amorim is wary of leaving his side short of options during a congested fixture schedule that includes the Premier League and the FA Cup."
Manchester United intend to retain Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo during the January window to preserve squad depth. Both players have seen limited first-team minutes since Ruben Amorim's arrival. Amorim has instructed the club not to sanction winter departures because AFCON will cause extended absences. Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha have reduced Zirkzee's playing opportunities this season. Mainoo remains an emerging academy graduate continuing to develop amid strong competition from Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Bruno Fernandes. Atlantic and defensive resources will be tested when Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui join their national teams for AFCON.
Read at www.caughtoffside.com
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