‘First of many’: How United and England players reacted to Kobbie Mainoo’s senior international debut

Manchester United’s teenage starlet Kobbie Mainoo was awarded his senior international debut last night. 

The 18-year-old entered the fray in the second half of England’s friendly with Brazil at Wembley, coming off the bench at the same time as fellow Red – and Carrington graduate – Marcus Rashford.

Mainoo had initially been called up to represent the Under 21s throughout this international break, but it seems as though Gareth Southgate was left thoroughly impressed with the midfielder’s mature showing against Liverpool last weekend, as he was subsequently promoted to the senior squad for the first-ever time.

The Three Lions ultimately fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of the five-time World Cup winners, with 17-year-old sensation Endrick being in the right place to capitalise off of Vinicius Jr.’s saved shot. After the full-time whistle, he paid tribute to United and England great Sir Bobby Charlton.

Nonetheless, Mainoo’s night wouldn’t have been too dampened by the result after his scintillating breakout campaign recorded another milestone. He’s quickly becoming one of the hottest prospects in Europe – and United are counting their lucky stars that he’s one of their own.

Players react to Mainoo milestone

He took to Instagram following the match to react, saying: “Special feeling making my senior England debut at Wembley and in front of my family. A moment I will never forget. Now we bounce back and refocus for Tuesday.”

Several of his teammates, current and former, weighed in to congratulate Mainoo, including Declan Rice, Cole Palmer and Bruno Fernandes.