Despite Manchester United’s 2-0 win against Sunderland in the Premier League, 20-year-old academy star Kobe Menoken was visibly displeased because he remains a consistent substitute. Ruben Amorin waited until the final 15 minutes to sub him in for the struggling Mbemo, after having made two other changes but not selecting Menoken.

Manchester United ’92 legend Nicky Butt recently stated that Menoken “has not received the respect he deserves,” a sentiment clearly shared by the England international himself. Since last month’s international break, he has been promoting his proactive extra training and positive attitude to the English media, yet Amorin remains unmoved and has not started him even once.
It’s hard to imagine Menoken getting a start in the upcoming Premier League “Red Derby” away at Anfield; he is expected to remain on the bench. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Menoken has issued Manchester United an ultimatum: if Amorin is not replaced, he will leave the club permanently.
Reportedly, several Champions League clubs are interested in signing Menoken. He is quite dissatisfied with Manchester United’s current development plans and believes that as long as Amorin remains in charge, a long-term collaboration is unlikely. The Red Devils highly value Menoken, seeing him as a future asset and appreciating his technical skills, composure, and vision on the pitch.

However, Amorin’s 3-4-3 formation leaves no suitable role for Menoken, especially if captain Bruno Fernandes drops back to midfield. In that case, the young star cannot start, as pairing him with Bruno in central midfield would likely result in disastrous outcomes.
Amorin demands aggression from Manchester United players, particularly midfielders, which is not Menoken’s style. Menoken is reportedly one of the players most dissatisfied with the 40-year-old Portuguese coach. He feels marginalized by the coach’s tactics and style, unable to fully showcase his potential. Ultimately, the club’s management will have to choose between the academy prodigy and the head coach.
To secure a spot in England’s squad for next summer’s World Cup, Menoken requested a loan move during the summer window to gain more playing time, but Manchester United declined and told him to fight for his place. Now, realizing Bruno Fernandes will always start, Menoken is limited to only ten to twenty minutes in garbage time, which naturally leaves him dissatisfied.

Menoken believes that partnering with Casemiro or Wugate would be the best midfield solution in the 3-4-3 setup, while teammates like Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount should compete for starting roles up front alongside new signings Cunha and Mbemo.
However, Amorin’s view is completely opposite; he sees Menoken as a direct competitor to Bruno Fernandes. Since the team mostly plays with a single attacking line this season, Menoken is left to sit on the bench.
According to Fichajes, Menoken has many suitors, not only from Premier League clubs but also from teams in Spain, Germany, and Italy, whose tactics might better suit his style. Serie A defending champions Napoli are rumored to be his top choice. The young player has made it clear: Manchester United must change the coach and give him sufficient playing time, or he will request a transfer again.

Manchester United fans are divided. Some believe players like Menoken, who are “one of their own,” should be prioritized for playing time, while others think the club should not give in to his unreasonable demands. Some supporters even feel both the player and coach should leave.