Wharton Passes the United Test
Crystal Palace may have lost 1–2 to Manchester United, but 21-year-old midfielder Adam Wharton was one of the brightest players on the pitch. His first-half performance showed exactly why Ruben Amorim has placed him high on Manchester United’s wishlist.
Ten Hag has long admired the young English talent, and this match will only strengthen his desire to bring Wharton to Old Trafford.
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A Standout First Half
Wharton completed the most passes for Crystal Palace in the first 45 minutes and recorded a match-high four duels won and three tackles.
His sharp forward ball to set up Mateta’s penalty highlighted the traits that have led many to compare him with former United star Michael Carrick.
His influence faded in the second half, and he was subbed off in the 77th minute. But with 18 matches already under his belt this season, fatigue is understandable.
For comparison, United’s iron-man Bruno Fernandes has played only 14 matches and logged fewer minutes.
A Top Target for 2025
Wharton is one of three priority midfield signings for Manchester United in 2025, alongside Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
A January deal is unlikely, but even next summer Crystal Palace will not entertain offers below £70 million—and that price may rise if Wharton continues performing at this level.
English media report that United believe Amorim can secure European qualification, giving them even more leverage to attract Wharton.
A Threat to Kobbie Mainoo
However, this potential signing is bad news for United’s 20-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
If United bring in one or two midfielders in January or summer, Mainoo could be pushed firmly into a secondary role—something he is reportedly unwilling to accept.
After a breakout 2023–24 season, Mainoo’s form has dipped significantly over the past 18 months. Amorim currently prefers Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro as his first-choice midfield pairing.
Italian media claim Mainoo has already agreed to join Serie A champions Napoli, with Antonio Conte confident he can sign the young England international.
Mainoo Struggling for Minutes
In the match against Crystal Palace, Mainoo only came on in the 91st minute despite United leading at the time. Cameras even caught him looking visibly frustrated while waiting on the sideline.
When asked about Mainoo’s role, Amorim responded:
“Like every player, I see him as a starter. But I must make choices. At this moment, Kobbie was not selected. Things can change. Even Casemiro did not play at first, and now he is a guaranteed starter.”
Amorim added that Mainoo’s late cameo against Everton was due to his threat inside the box:
“With Bruno alongside him, he can create and score. I want Kobbie and all the others to help us win.”
Amorims World Cup View
When asked whether the reduced playing time would harm Mainoo’s Euro or World Cup chances, Amorim replied:
“Football is a team sport. Everyone talks about Kobbie, but I have many players who also dream of the World Cup. I must focus on the team, not just one individual.”
He emphasized fairness and the priority of winning matches over individual ambitions.
A Move Could Help His Career
At this stage of Mainoo’s development, leaving Manchester United might actually benefit him.
Former teammates like Mason Greenwood, McTominay, Rashford, and Højlund all serve as reminders of how difficult it is for young players to maintain momentum if they lose their place.
A fresh environment could offer Mainoo the playing time he desperately needs.
For fans tracking transfer rumors on 12BET Malaysia, this saga may become one of the defining stories of 2025.
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