Football fans are rallying behind Gareth Southgate to select Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo for the upcoming Euros. The 18-year-old prodigy impressed during United’s recent match against Wigan, contributing to their 2-0 victory in the FA Cup. Mainoo’s emergence as a strong contender for the team has seen him start in their last five games.
Social media has been abuzz with supporters urging Southgate to include Mainoo alongside England regulars Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in a formidable midfield trio. One fan expressed, “If Kobbie Mainoo played for a better team with better players around him, he starts for England this summer. The boy is ridiculous 🔥🔥.” Another fan confidently stated, “Mainoo-Rice-Bellingham will win England the Euros.”
Even Sky Sports presenter Joe Thomas agrees with the fans, saying, “Obviously not an amazing level tonight, but Kobbie Mainoo… Going to be one hell of an asset for England in the future alongside the likes of Rice/Bellingham. 👏🏻” With Mainoo’s impressive performances and growing reputation, it seems only a matter of time before he secures his place in the national team.
While options for England’s midfield have been discussed extensively, players such as Kalvin Phillips, Conor Gallagher, and Jordan Henderson have filled the position in the past year. However, Phillips has only started two games for Manchester City this season, Henderson is currently playing in Saudi Arabia, and Gallagher has not yet featured in a major tournament. Mainoo, on the other hand, has already earned six caps for England’s U19 team and has the potential to make a significant impact on the international stage.
Despite his relatively limited playing time at Manchester United, Mainoo has already surpassed the likes of Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek in the selection process. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has praised Mainoo’s abilities, stating, “If you are good enough, you are old enough, and he proved that. When he gets used more often in these games, we will get even more joy from it. He has the vision to make quick passes and hurt opponents.”
Gareth Southgate faces a tough decision in selecting England’s midfield for Euro 2024. With Mainoo’s undeniable talent and growing support from fans and pundits alike, including him in the squad could prove to be a game-changer. It remains to be seen whether Southgate will heed the calls and grant Mainoo the opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage.