Kobbie Mainoo: Man United Star Speaks After ‘Snubbing’ Ghana to Receive England Call Up

• Kobbie Mainoo has earned his first England call-up
• The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season
• He was eligible to represent Ghana through his parents

Manchester United's rising star, Kobbie Mainoo, has shared his excitement after earning his inaugural call-up to the England national team.

The 18-year-old midfielder was initially selected for the England under-21s squad but has now been elevated to Gareth Southgate's senior squad.

Mainoo has already represented England at the under-17s, under-18s, and under-19s levels and is now poised to make his senior debut in the upcoming international friendlies against Brazil on Saturday and Belgium on March 26, both to be held at Wembley Stadium, per the BBC.

Since his debut for Manchester United against Everton in November 2023, Mainoo, who was also eligible to play for Ghana, has swiftly established himself as a key player under manager Erik ten Hag.

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In addition to making 19 further appearances for the Red Devils, he scored his debut goal in an FA Cup fourth-round victory against Newport in January, followed by a crucial late winner against Wolves in the Premier League just four days later.

What Mainoo said after England call-up?

Following the announcement of his England call-up, the Stockport-born talent shared the story of how he received the exciting news.

“I got a text from Steve Holland telling me to come and meet him at reception, and he just told me I’ve been called up, and I’m going to be training with the squad for the week,” he said as cited by Fabrizio Romano.

Excited about the opportunity to represent his country of birth rather than that of his parents, Mainoo expressed his delight:

“I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet, but I’m excited!”.

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Mainoo's market value surges

The Manchester United prodigy has had a stellar season with the Red Devils, leading to a significant surge in his market value.

With Transfermarkt's latest update unveiled, Sports Brief examines the top 10 players who have seen the most substantial increases in their market worth.

Mainoo's value now stands at €36 million, positioning him as the fourth most valuable teenage midfielder globally.