Manchester United’s 18-year-old midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, has been selected to join the England squad by Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate.
England will be playing two home friendlies at Wembley this week, facing Brazil on Saturday, March 23, and Belgium on Tuesday, March 26, as they get ready for the Euro 2024 tournament this summer.
Mainoo was originally named in the under-21 squad but has now been promoted to the senior team for his first call-up, with no players dropping out.
A statement from England read: “Kobbie Mainoo has received his first call up to the England men’s senior squad.
“The 18-year-old was initially part of the MU21 squad but has been drafted into Gareth Southgate’s group.
“All other 25 players reported to St. George’s Park on Tuesday ahead of the forthcoming internationals against Brazil and Belgium.
“Manchester United midfielder Mainoo has previously represented England at MU17 through to MU19 level.”
Mainoo, who had only played in one Premier League game last year, confesses that he is still trying to process his sudden and rapid rise in the league.
“It’s a bit different,” he said. “I got called up to the 21s and then got a text from [England assistant manager] Steve Holland, who told me to come and meet him at reception. He just told me that I’d been called up.
“I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet, but I’m excited! I text home, and they’re all buzzing!”
Mainoo has been a standout player this season in the Premier League, taking Christian Eriksen’s spot in United’s starting lineup.
He has received high praise for his performances, especially in United’s recent 2-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford.
Wayne Rooney, a United legend speaking on TNT Sports, likened the teenager to a former teammate of his.
“I think he’s incredible for such a young age, with the maturity he’s shown,” Rooney said.
“When you see any young players come into the first team, they’re normally a bit raw or play off the cuff.
“He reminds me of a young Bastian Schweinsteiger with how he plays, and he always seems to make the right decisions.
“He has a very bright future.”
