Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo has been awaiting a call-up from the English national team for more than a year, but he might have to settle for a less desirable alternative.
The 20-year-old has been struggling for playing time at club level since the appointment of Ruben Amorim as Man Utd coach in October 2024. The midfielder lost the starting spot he had acquired during Erik ten Hag’s reign at Carrington.
This season, Mainoo has been told he must ‘fight’ for his starting berth with Bruno Fernandes, but usurping the club captain in the pecking order remains highly unlikely at this stage. Therefore, the young player has yet to start a Premier League contest this season, only picking up 113 minutes of game time after seven rounds.
Kobbie Mainoo struggling for playing time at Man Utd
The ‘unhappy’ Mainoo will be keen to leave United in January in order to improve his chances of earning a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of next summer’s World Cup. After all, his most recent international call-up dates back to September 2024.
Nevertheless, the midfielder could be offered the opportunity to return to the national team, albeit through the gates of the U21 squad.
England U21 manager Lee Carsley has expressly opened the door for Mainoo and fellow senior-team outcast, Adam Wharton.
“No, they’re definitely in consideration,” said the 51-year-old as quoted by the Daily Mail. “They’re in the senior bracket. I think it’s fair to say that they’re more senior end than 21s end. But I think there’s always the option.
“I’ve got in contact with both of them. So they’re players that are highly rated within the system. think it’s one that we just assess every camp. I’m sure they’re both pitching to being in the senior team.”
Why Mainoo should relish England U21 opportunity
While playing age-level football might not be the most enticing prospect for a 10-time senior capped player, this demotion could do Mainoo good.
After all, the Man Utd academy product should be jumping at any opportunity to remind the world of his immense talent, and playing against fellow youngsters could help him showcase his superior credentials.
Moreover, Tuchel will be definitely keeping an eye on England U21, so a supreme display from Mainoo could help him claw his way back to the seniors, even though the lack of playing at Old Trafford might still hamper his chances.
