Gary Neville Singles Out Amorim’s Biggest Blunder at Manchester United—and Mainoo’s Rise Proves Him Right
17 February 2026
Overview
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has highlighted what he views as the worst decision Ruben Amorim made during his time at Old Trafford.
United confirmed Amorim's departure in January following a run of mixed results and appointed Michael Carrick as caretaker until the end of the season.
Carrick's Impact
Under Carrick, United's form improved, delivering four straight wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Tottenham, and a draw with West Ham in the league.
Neville told The Mirror that not starting Kobbie Mainoo regularly under Amorim was the club's biggest mistake.
Mainoo's Rise and the Amorim Debate
Since Amorim's exit, Mainoo has started every game under Carrick, playing a central role in United's winning run and dreaming of a place in England's squad for this summer's World Cup.
During Amorim's tenure, Mainoo thought he might need to switch clubs to secure the playing time that England boss Thomas Tuchel might notice someday. Neville added that "Mainoo didn't get a real chance under Amorim." If you think about it now and look at Mainoo in this team, that might indeed have been the worst decision Amorim made.
After Amorim's dismissal, Neville criticised his approach to Mainoo, admitting he never liked the way he was treated.
