Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire welcomed his club teammate Kobbie Mainoo to England camp after his first international call-up
After earning his first England call-up, Kobbie Mainoo received a warm welcome from his Manchester United teammate Harry Maguire. The young defensive midfielder is a part of England’s senior squad that will face Brazil and Belgium in the friendlies.
The Red Devils suffered a horrible start to the current season with their midfield department struggling with form and injuries. United crashed out of the Carabao Cup and the Champions League very early in the season due to their problems.
Many fans and pundits criticized the midfield for their failure to make an impact in each phase of the game. New signings Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat failed to meet the expectations after signing with United in the summer.
Furthermore, Casemiro and Christian Eriksen struggled to keep up with the pace of the opposition players due to their age. Ten Hag took the opportunity to provide Mainoo his first Premier League start against Everton on 26th November 2023.
The 18-year-old took the opportunity and solidified his place in the senior team while becoming a regular first-team player. Mainoo has made 23 appearances in all competitions, contributing with two goals and two assists for the Red Devils.
The Englishman has injected energy into the United midfield, playing as a number six and shielding the United’s defence. The 18-year-old has the technique, close control and ability to wiggle out of tight spaces when his team has possession.
Mainoo’s consistent performances gained attention from England manager Gareth Southgate, who wants to secure his international future. The 18-year-old’s eligibility for Ghana also piqued the interest of Ghana’s football association, who considered calling him up.
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Maguire used his Instagram account to welcome Mainoo to the England camp after he earned his first call-up. The 18-year-old is available for selection in the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium before returning to the club.
