Manchester United’s young talent, Kobbie Mainoo, has received his inaugural call-up to the England squad for their upcoming friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium.
Mainoo is emerging as one of United’s most promising young talents in what marks a breakthrough season for the 18-year-old.
With 20 impressive performances in United’s central midfield this term, Mainoo has earned a well-deserved promotion to the England squad as they prepare for Euro 2024.
Initially selected for the England Under-21 squad, Mainoo has now progressed to Gareth Southgate’s senior group.
“Kobbie Mainoo has received his first call-up to the England senior squad,” England’s Football Association said in a statement said on Tuesday.
In their final matches before Southgate names his squad for the European Championship in Germany, England face Brazil at Wembley on Saturday and host Belgium on March 26.
Mainoo will get the chance to stake his claim for a seat on the plane to the Euros, with Southgate a long-term admirer of the youngster.
Speaking at the Nations League draw in February, Southgate said: “He’s doing brilliantly. I’m not certain he’s necessarily going to be a defensive midfielder, as such.
“He’s quite a progressive player but he’s had a fabulous start to his career and it will be good to monitor him as we go forward.”
Mainoo became part of United’s youth system at the age of nine and debuted in a League Cup match against Charlton in 2023.
His inaugural start for United occurred in November of last year against Everton, and he notched his first goal for the club during their FA Cup victory against Newport in January.