Kobbie Mainoo remains sidelined as England prepares for knockout stage

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:35 PM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

Kobbie Mainoo remains sidelined as England prepares for knockout stage
Summary

Kobbie Mainoo has not seen any action for England at the 2026 World Cup, with Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson starting in midfield. Thomas Tuchel made tactical adjustments during England's final group match against Panama, opting for Morgan Rogers and later Jordan Henderson instead of Mainoo. Critics, including Wayne Rooney, express disappointment over Mainoo's lack of playtime, labeling it an insult, especially given Henderson's selection over him. As England heads into the knockout stage against DR Congo, there are calls for Mainoo to start.

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  • Kobbie Mainoo has not played at the World Cup yet.
  • England faces DR Congo in the last 32 knockout stage.
  • Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson were preferred in midfield.
  • Wayne Rooney and others criticize the choice to overlook Mainoo.
  • England's match against Panama featured tactical changes by Tuchel.
Latest Updates
  • 1:35 PMYahoo Sports'It's insulting Mainoo's not playing'
What they're saying
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Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has yet to feature for England at the 2026 World Cup with Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson emerging as Thomas Tuchel's preferred starters in central midfield. When Rice was injured for the final group game against Panama, Tuchel made a tactical change to start Morgan Rogers and then Jordan Henderson was preferred to come on from the bench.

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