Mainoo’s Whirlwind Journey to the England Senior Squad
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has had a whirlwind couple of days after being called up to the England senior squad for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. Originally named in the under-21s squad, the 18-year-old has now set his sights on earning a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad.
A Shocking Promotion
“I was shocked and happy,” Mainoo revealed in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live’s John Murray. “It’s been a whirlwind of emotions, a pretty mad couple of days.” The young midfielder, who was raised in Stockport, had only made his first Premier League start in November. However, his impressive performances for Manchester United under manager Erik ten Hag have caught the attention of Gareth Southgate.
Adapting to the Premier League
Mainoo’s journey to the senior squad has not been easy. “I had to adapt quickly to the Premier League,” he admitted. “Obviously, it’s very demanding physically, and also mentally, so it’s been tough.” Despite the challenges, Mainoo has found his feet and is now relishing his time on the pitch. “The games have been coming so fast at United but now I’m here [with England], obviously I am taking it all in and it’s been amazing.”
Euro 2024 Dreams
When asked about his hopes of making the squad for the European Championship in Germany, Mainoo shared his ambitions. “I think that’s the end goal for the season, to get into that squad,” he stated. However, he acknowledges the importance of focusing on club football in the meantime. “But obviously I’ve got to focus on club football in the meantime, and hopefully that’ll figure itself out.”
Southgate’s Decision to Take a Look
BBC Radio 5 live football correspondent John Murray provided some analysis on Mainoo’s inclusion in the senior squad. Murray highlighted that Mainoo was called up as the 26th man in this squad, indicating that no one has dropped out yet. However, there may be concerns over Jordan Henderson’s fitness, potentially opening up an opportunity for Mainoo.
Murray also noted the absence of players like Kalvin Phillips, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and John Stones due to injury. With these absentees, Gareth Southgate has decided to give Mainoo a chance to showcase his skills for England. “I suspect because of those absentees he might get an opportunity in these next two matches to show what he can do for England,” Murray speculated.
Mainoo’s Rise Continues
Kobbie Mainoo’s journey from the under-21s squad to the England senior squad is a testament to his talent and hard work. At just 18 years old, he has already made a significant impact at Manchester United and is now eager to make a name for himself on the international stage. As he continues to adapt and grow as a player, it will be interesting to see if he can secure a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad. For now, Mainoo remains focused on his club football while relishing the amazing opportunity to represent his country.