On the evening of March 19th, coach Gareth Southgate unexpectedly called up Kobbie Mainoo to the England national team.

“Welcome to the Three Lions, Kobbie Mainoo,” the official England national team fan page posted a picture of the young star, born in 2005, along with congratulations. Coach Gareth Southgate made the decision immediately after Manchester United’s victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals. In that match, Mainoo impressed with his ability to escape pressing and make impressive breakthroughs, helping the Red Devils compete on equal terms with a higher-rated opponent.

Statistics show that the 18-year-old midfielder successfully completed 100% of his dribbles and ball retentions. He won 75% of his duals, made two interceptions, created a clear goal-scoring opportunity, and received a rating of 7.4 from SofaScore.

Mainoo’s impressive performance in the English derby seems to have changed Coach Southgate’s thinking. Previously, the England manager had spoken highly of Mainoo’s abilities. However, according to Southgate, the young star still needs to gain more experience before being given an opportunity at the national team level.

Mainoo becomes the youngest player in this month’s England call-up and the third Manchester United player to be called up, alongside Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford.

Under Coach Gareth Southgate’s guidance, the team will play two friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium on March 24th and 27th.