My goal is to make it into the England squad for the Euros -Kobbie Mainoo

On March 21, 2024, 6:41 AM

Kobbie Mainoo, a midfielder of Ghanaian descent who plays for Manchester United, is hoping to secure a place in England’s National Men’s Football Team for the 2024 European Championship.

This, unfortunately, means that his chances of playing for Ghana’s Black Stars are dwindling.

Although he had a limited role in The Red Devils’ squad last season, the 18-year-old has emerged as a regular starter in the 2023-2024 season.

His recent stoppage-time goal against Wolverhampton Wanderers was a testament to his progress.

While he was initially due to play for England’s Under 21 team, Mainoo has been added to the senior England squad for upcoming international friendly games against Brazil and Belgium on March 23 and March 26 respectively.

Speaking to the BBC since getting called up by England manager Gareth Southgate, Mainoo talked about the emotions he has felt.

“I was shocked and happy. It’s been a whirlwind of emotions, a pretty mad couple of days. The games have been coming so fast at United but now I’m here [with England], obviously I am taking it all in and it’s been amazing.”

Mainoo with Man United teammate Harry Maguire at England Camp Photo Courtesy: Getty Images
“I think that’s the end goal for the season (to play for England in the Euros), to get into that squad” he said.

Mainoo scores winner against Wolves Photo Courtesy: BBC
Mainoo’s parents are Ghanaian and he is still eligible to play for Ghana despite the call up should he remain as an unused substitute.