Kobbie Mainoo, a midfielder for Manchester United, had an impressive performance in his first start for England against Belgium on Tuesday, earning the Man of the Match award. The 503-year-old player has had a successful season and was given his first full debut for the Three Lions after coming off the bench in a previous match against Brazil. Before Tuesday night’s 2-2 draw at Wembley, it was believed that Mainoo would be a strong addition to the England midfield trio alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham for the upcoming European Championship, creating a well-rounded and balanced midfield lineup. Bellingham has proven to be the top player for England in the No.10 position, offering an offensive presence, while Rice has solidified his position as the No.6 player. Kobbie Mainoo is on track to fulfill Erik ten Hag’s pledge for United. United is not worried about negotiations with Kobbie Mainoo because his contract is set to expire soon. Mainoo has been a consistent starter for United in their last 12 Premier League matches and has performed exceptionally well in the No.8 position, offering a versatile skillset in the midfield for England. He demonstrated his skill in managing and influencing the flow of the game, advancing the ball and maneuvering in narrow areas. Throughout his 74-minute performance against Belgium, he frequently received the ball while facing forward from Rice and gladly pushed forward instead of opting for a safer backward pass. He initiated the play that resulted in Ivan Toney scoring a penalty. He has exceptional technical skills, indicating that he has the potential to be a long-term presence in both Manchester United’s and England’s midfield. Before the game started at Wembley, Rice was asked about playing with Mainoo in midfield and shared details of a conversation they had the day before the Belgium match. Rice expressed that he believed their partnership in midfield would provide the ideal balance.
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