Kobbie Mainoo rewarded for scintillating United form by receiving first-ever England U21s call-up

Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo has today been named in England’s Under-21s squad for the first-ever time.

Manager Lee Carsley has opted to include the 18-year-old in his 24-man team ahead of their U21 Euro 2025 qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg on March 22 and March 26 respectively.

Lee Carsley has named his #YoungLions squad for two upcoming #U21EURO qualifiers! 🙌

— England (@England) March 15, 2024

Supporters of both England and United had rallied for Mainoo to make the jump to the senior national team this month following an outstanding run of form at the heart of United’s midfield. Gareth Southgate ultimately decided against it but did speak highly of the teenager and hint that he may be in contention when he has more matches under his belt.

Mainoo has made 16 starts in all competitions since returning from a long-term injury in November 2023 and is now on a run of 12 consecutive Premier League starts. His impressive performances are keeping senior counterparts Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen and Sofyan Amrabat out of the starting 11.

The Carrington graduate has previously represented the Three Lions up to U19 level.