Kobbie Mainoo Drops Major Hint as His Stunning Comeback Gains Unstoppable Momentum

Kobbie Mainoo owes Michael Carrick a debt of gratitude for rescuing his Manchester United career, as the talented midfielder is now "definitely" back in England's plans with less than four months remaining until the 2026 World Cup kicks off.

According to whom? Thomas Tuchel, speaking after securing a fresh two-year contract extension.

This new agreement with the FA to remain England's manager through Euro 2028—a tournament on home soil—paradoxically eliminates any possibility of Tuchel taking over as Manchester United's next permanent boss. However, there's a strong likelihood he'll be collaborating closely with Mainoo regardless.

"[He is] definitely back in consideration," the German tactician informed the media. "It's wonderful to see him playing again. He possesses incredible talent. He's already completed an entire tournament representing England, so he's firmly back in our plans."

The 20-year-old hasn't featured for England since 2024 after a remarkable ascent that culminated in starting the European Championship final. Fitness issues and Amorim's belief that he wasn't ready for regular first-team action saw him lose his place, with Tuchel yet to select Mainoo.

However, circumstances have shifted dramatically. Darren Fletcher initially restored Mainoo to United's lineup, and Carrick—a strong believer in his abilities—has continued that trend. His comeback, despite barely featuring for months, even prompted Gary Lineker to humorously suggest he should take legal action against his previous manager.

Mainoo Resurgence Damning Indictment of Amorim

Mainoo Revival Exposes Amorim's Shortcomings

Mainoo isn't the only player catching Tuchel's attention. The manager has confirmed that both Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire have also returned to England's consideration.

Part of this relates to fitness levels, as neither defender has enjoyed an injury-free campaign in recent years, but Tuchel's remarks also support the theory that Amorim was restricting certain players' development.

The Portuguese coach remained inflexibly committed to his 3-4-2-1 formation, which Tuchel has essentially acknowledged was the reason behind Maguire and Shaw's exclusion.

"Several players are suddenly back in contention, they're now playing a back four and utilizing a different approach, which translates more easily to our current setup," he clarified.

"It creates healthy competition."

It wasn't long ago—specifically October 2024—when an England squad contained zero Manchester United representatives for the first time since 1976. Mainoo had initially been chosen by former boss Gareth Southgate but withdrew due to injury, leaving no other United players included.

This absence became standard, and the sole United player Tuchel has called upon is Marcus Rashford, who has been on loan elsewhere since January and barely qualifies.

Now there's a scenario where Mainoo, Shaw and Maguire aren't just making the squad but could potentially start at the World Cup.

With competition from United transfer target Elliot Anderson, Mainoo could form an ideal midfield partnership alongside Declan Rice. England lacks a settled left-back, with Nico O'Reilly featuring in the last two November qualifiers but now excelling in midfield for Manchester City. Similarly, there's no established center-back pairing, which might provide Maguire's route back into the team.