Kobbie Mainoo has yet to play a single minute for England at the 2026 World Cup, making him one of only two outfield players in the squad without game time—the other being late arrival Trevoh Chalobah. Theories have emerged from within the England camp regarding the Manchester United midfielder's lack of opportunities.
Mainoo's World Cup Debut Possible in Third-Place Play-off
Mainoo could make his World Cup debut when England faces France in the third-place play-off on Saturday night (10pm kick-off). Head coach Thomas Tuchel may rotate the squad after the semi-final defeat to Argentina, offering a chance for fringe players to feature.
The 21-year-old regained his place as a key player at Manchester United under Michael Carrick after struggling for game time under Ruben Amorim. However, he has found himself behind Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson in the England pecking order. Even when Rice was struggling with fitness, Tuchel turned to Reece James—a natural full-back who can play in central midfield—rather than Mainoo.
Theories Behind Mainoo's Snub
According to The Athletic, Mainoo was often the first player back on the team coach after matches, walking quickly through the mixed zone. Some in the England camp suggest Tuchel may view the 21-year-old as a young player content just to be part of the squad. Another theory is that Mainoo did not do enough in training to earn Tuchel's trust, though sources close to the camp say he trained well.
If Mainoo plays against France, he will have a point to prove to Tuchel and the coaching staff as he looks to secure more game time ahead of the European Championships in two years.
Nicky Butt Advises Mainoo to Refuse to Play
Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has controversially advised Mainoo to refuse to play in the third-place play-off. "I do not know what is going on there, there's something not quite right with it," Butt said. "Now they're going to play the bomb squad in the stupid third-place game. I'd just refuse to play if I was Kobbie Mainoo. I'd say I was injured. It's a nonsense game, especially when you've been treated like that. He's not played a minute of football, now to go and start this pointless jumped-up friendly and potentially get injured for the whole season... no."
Mainoo's Future at Manchester United
After returning from the United States and a break, Mainoo will rejoin Manchester United, where the midfield will look different following the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. Despite these additions, Mainoo is still expected to be a key player for United in the new season, starting with the first Premier League match against Hull City.
