March 19, (THEWILL) – In a breakthrough moment, 18-year-old Manchester United’s rising star, Kobbie Mainoo, has received his first senior call-up to the England national team.
The promising midfielder, who has impressed with 20 appearances for the Red Devils this season, will join Gareth Southgate’s squad for their upcoming Euro 2024 warm-up friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. His rapid rise has seen him swiftly promoted from the England Under-21 setup into the senior ranks.
Mainoo’s composure in United’s midfield has not gone unnoticed by Southgate, who views the teenager as a potential asset for the European Championship in Germany this summer. The England manager had previously praised Mainoo’s “fabulous start” to his fledgling career.
With England facing Brazil at Wembley on Saturday, before hosting Belgium four days later, Mainoo will have the opportunity to stake his claim for a place in Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad. Having joined United’s Academy at age nine, the composed midfielder made his first-team debut in 2023 and scored his maiden goal for the club in an FA Cup tie against Newport County earlier this year.
Mainoo’s inclusion in the senior squad underlines Southgate’s willingness to integrate promising young talent alongside established stars. As England aims to build a formidable squad capable of challenging for the European crown, the gifted teenager could prove an astute addition, providing depth and creativity in the middle of the park.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
