Thomas Tuchel decides on Kobbie Mainoo before naming the squad, while Adam Wharton’s place is unclear.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has the tough job of picking his World Cup squad, and one player whose spot seems set is Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo.
Tuchel recently shared a provisional list that included several central midfielders, like Alex Scott, Kobbie Mainoo, and Adam Wharton. The fight for a spot in England’s midfield is intense, which is great news for fans who’ve had to make do with shifting Bellingham into unfamiliar roles.
With Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson likely guaranteed their places, it looks like the renewed Kobbie Mainoo will be joining them. Since Michael Carrick arrived at Old Trafford, Mainoo has turned things around, playing in 14 of 15 games under the former England star.
He’s had some big moments, including a late winner against Liverpool, earning enough respect at Manchester United to get a new contract. Now, it seems he’ll be spending the summer in North America for the World Cup.
Talksport reports that Mainoo is expected to make the final 25-man England squad for the 2026 World Cup. Unfortunately for Adam Wharton, who played in the March warm-ups, his chances look slimmer.
While Mainoo might not feel too sorry for Wharton, he could relate to another Manchester United player missing out. With Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa locked in at the heart of England’s defense, Harry Maguire was reportedly left out.
Maguire told TalkSport, “I was confident I could have played a big part this summer. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best.”
That opens the door for Levi Colwill, whose comeback from injury has been promising, even if Chelsea hasn’t had the best season.
The official England World Cup squad will be announced this Friday at Wembley, starting at 9:45am BST.