mainoo has gone from being frozen out at Manchester United to England’s World Cup squad, and Wayne Rooney’s message arrived just before Wednesday’s opener against Croatia. The 21-year-old said he is ready to start if Thomas Tuchel gives him the nod.
Rooney’s words to Mainoo
Rooney sent Mainoo a message on the eve of the World Cup kick-off, backing the midfielder with a line that left a mark. The former England striker told him: “Hi Kobbie, just a message to say good luck at the World Cup. Just be yourself and you’ll be a star there, mate. Also, how you have handled everything this season has been a lesson to all young football players, a great example to young and old players. “And finally, you might not see, but having two lads in the United Academy, you should realise you are an inspiration to them and to the young lads there. Keep doing what you are doing. Be yourself. Much love, Wazza.”
Mainoo described Rooney’s words as amazing and called him a role model for young players growing up at United. The note landed at the sharp end of a season that had put the midfielder back in contention after an uncertain spell earlier in the campaign.
From Old Trafford uncertainty
Midway through last season, Mainoo’s Manchester United future was up in the air. Ruben Amorim did not gell with him and left him frozen out at Old Trafford, with a move away from Manchester looking increasingly likely.
After Amorim was given his marching orders, Michael Carrick restored Mainoo to the starting XI, and he has not looked back since. He helped United to an impressive third-place finish, then won a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad. He also started for England at the 2024 Euros under Gareth Southgate, when England missed out on the trophy.
England’s midfield choice
Wednesday’s opener against Croatia arrives with Mainoo still fighting for a place in Tuchel’s plans. Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice are currently the favoured midfield pairing, which leaves him waiting for his chance even after the surge back into club form.
That makes Rooney’s message more than a pat on the back. Mainoo now walks into the tournament with a World Cup squad place, a direct endorsement from a Manchester United great, and a fight on his hands to force his way into England’s starting line-up.
