Tuchel explains Mainoo's lack of playing time at World Cup
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 4:35 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026

Thomas Tuchel addressed Kobbie Mainoo's absence from the pitch during the 2026 World Cup, where the midfielder did not play a single minute despite being included in the England squad. Tuchel noted that he trusted other players more for midfield roles, while Mainoo was in good form leading into the tournament. An injury prevented Mainoo from participating in the third-place match against France. After being named in Tuchel's squad for upcoming internationals, Tuchel expressed the expectation that Mainoo would finally see playing time.
- •Mainoo was part of England's squad but did not feature at the World Cup.
- •Tuchel cited strong competition in midfield as the reason for Mainoo's lack of minutes.
- •Mainoo missed the third-place match due to injury.
- •Tuchel expects Mainoo to play in the next international fixtures.
- •Mainoo has had a solid season with Manchester United, contributing one assist in six appearances.
- 4:35 PMYahoo Sports — “It hurt me” – Tuchel breaks silence on Kobbie Mainoo’s World Cup treatment
- 1:05 PMYahoo Sports — Tuchel explains why Kobbie Mainoo didn’t play a single minute at 2026 World Cup
"England boss Thomas Tuchel explains why he kept Kobbie Mainoo on the bench for the duration of the World Cup.The Manchester United midfielder earned his ticket to the biggest tournament in sports than...
"1Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has held his own this season despite the club investing over £150 million in the middle of the park this summer. The Red Devils signed Andrey Santos, Youri...
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 18, 2026, 4:35 PM“It hurt me” – Tuchel breaks silence on Kobbie Mainoo’s World Cup treatment
England boss Thomas Tuchel explains why he kept Kobbie Mainoo on the bench for the duration of the World Cup.The Manchester United midfielder earned his ticket to the biggest tournament in sports than...
- Yahoo SportsSep 18, 2026, 1:05 PMTuchel explains why Kobbie Mainoo didn’t play a single minute at 2026 World Cup
1Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has held his own this season despite the club investing over £150 million in the middle of the park this summer. The Red Devils signed Andrey Santos, Youri...
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