England take on Norway in today’s first 2026 World Cup quarterfinal: Live updates
Kobbie Mainoo was the surprise solution to England’s midfield issues at Euro 2024, leapfrogging Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher for the central position next to Declan Rice in the knockout stages.
But manager Thomas Tuchel has approached the 2026 World Cup differently, constructing a 26-man squad with the intention of maximising Harry Kane’s talents. Elliot Anderson has become the preferred option alongside Rice in central midfield. When the Arsenal man was rested for England’s final group game against Panama, Tuchel opted to play Bellingham in a deeper role, keeping Mainoo on the bench.
The 21-year-old’s lack of game time is related to a clash between his skill set and Tuchel’s particular requirements for his midfield. While his ball-carrying through tight spaces has earned him praise from former England international Wayne Rooney and made him a crucial player for United, Mainoo cannot quite match Anderson’s physicality for England.
If Mainoo is to feature at all in this World Cup, it will most likely come in short bursts for whatever remains of England’s campaign. He will still have a major role to play this summer as United’s pre-season tour begins in earnest and the club looks to sign midfielders to play alongside him for the upcoming season.
His future remains bright, even if his footballing present sees him mostly on the bench.