Former Man United star claims Ruben Amorim has a 'phenomenal player' he isn't giving a chance

Lee Sharpe backs Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo to force their way into Manchester United’s plans despite limited minutes; Zirkzee may seek a January exit if opportunities don’t come. Betting angle: punters might back Zirkzee to score when given starts or target markets on a January move, while Mainoo could be a value bet for starts/assists as rotation increases.

Lee Sharpe: Zirkzee and Mainoo Deserve More Chances at Manchester United

Former United winger Lee Sharpe says Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo have the quality to make a real impact at Old Trafford — they simply need more minutes. The Dutch forward has accumulated just 90 minutes this season across all competitions, and both players find themselves on the fringes despite clear talent.

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What Sharpe Said

"I would like to see more of Zirkzee," Sharpe said. "I think Zirkzee is a phenomenal player and he would benefit from getting more game time. I think Mainoo should hope to get more minutes in the centre of midfield. He has worked on his physicality and I would like to see him more because I think he can do more on the ball than some. I would not want to sell either of them."

Sharpe stressed the length of the season and the inevitability of injuries, arguing that depth will be needed: "You have got to have cover and Zirkzee and Mainoo are unbelievably quality players, fantastic on the ball, very rarely give the ball away and I think you are going to need them at some point."

Why Minutes Are Scarce

Tactical consistency and form have limited opportunities. Bruno Fernandes has been pressed into a deeper midfield role at times for his drive and creativity, and Casemiro provides protective cover for the back three. That combination has squeezed Mainoo’s pathway, while Zirkzee faces competition and limited rotation up front, despite comparisons with Benjamin Sesko.

Squad Implications and January Risks

Sharpe expects patience to pay off but acknowledges the possibility of exits if playing time doesn’t improve. For United, keeping both players available could prove vital across a long season where injuries and fixture congestion demand dependable, ball-playing options.

Betting and Transfer Outlook

For punters, the story creates two clear angles: short-term value on Zirkzee as a goalscorer if given starts (look for odds to shorten when he’s named in the XI) and market opportunities in January transfer/loan betting if his minutes remain limited. Mainoo could represent value in player prop markets for starts or assists as rotation becomes more likely. Bettors should monitor team news and rotation indicators before staking.

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim could be hit with a transfer request ahead of the January window.

Manchester Evening News