United Beyond Manchester

Kobbie Mainoo has been an incredible force and a calming presence in Manchester United’s midfield since his return from injury. His shifty dribbling, excellent defending, and obvious maturity are just a few of the qualities that led the brilliant 18-year-old to his first England start today.

Mainoo and England fell behind 1-0 after a giveaway from Jordan Pickford. Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans picked the ball up and found the bottom corner as Pickford rushed to get back into his goal.

After going down 1-0, it was Mainoo whose technical ability set up Bellingham to put a ball in behind for Ivan Toney. Toney was brought down in the box and buried the penalty that followed to level at 1-1.

Mainoo’s mindset was epitomized by a brief passage of play where he gave the ball away and won it back immediately. In the 30th minute, Mainoo tried to force a ball through and it was won by Belgium. When Jeremy Doku picked the ball up and started to drive, Mainoo recovered expertly and put a tackle in. As the ball got away, Mainoo continued to work and won a throw off the Belgian player.

Just two minutes later, Mainoo won the ball back brilliantly on a high press and should have had his first England assist. Unfortunately, Jude Bellingham’s strike flashed just over the bar, and the match remained 1-1.

The Three Lions suffered a blow as Youri Tielemans bagged his second goal of the night after former Red Romelu Lukaku played a stunning ball with the outside of his foot. Tielemans buried the cross to put Belgium up 2-1.

In the second half, Mainoo’s quality continued to show, and he had a great chance at his first England goal in the 64th minute. Mainoo’s shot was saved, however, by the foot of the goalkeeper, and England remained down 2-1.

Kobbie Mainoo’s night ended when he was withdrawn in the 73rd minute. It was an assured performance from him, and he was applauded off by the English supporters.

After his exit, England went on to level and steal a draw through Jude Bellingham.

Kobbie Mainoo’s starting debut was full of quality, and his composure on the ball was the highlight. No moment has been too big for the young Englishman and he never looks nervous or uncomfortable. The young midfielder analyzes everything calmly and always seems to be a step ahead of those around him. At just 18 years old, Kobbie Mainoo’s ability is shining, and after today’s performance, we should see him at the Euros this summer.

Mainoo will return to Wembley with Manchester United in April for the FA Cup Semi-Finals against Coventry City.