Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo is aiming to etch his name in English football folklore by lifting the European Championship trophy with the Three Lions on Sunday.
The 19-year-old midfielder, born in England to Ghanaian parents, has defied expectations with his standout performances at Euro 2024. Despite making his international debut only in March, Mainoo has become a crucial cog in Gareth Southgate’s side. He previously attracted interest from the Ghana Football Association before choosing to represent England.
England will face a tough test in the final, taking on Spain at the iconic Olympia stadion in Berlin, Germany on Sunday, July 14. Kick-off is set for 19:00 GMT.
Kobbie Mainoo continued his impressive form in the hard-fought 2-1 semi-final victory over the Netherlands. “It’s an incredible feeling,” Mainoo told The Independent. “It’s happened fast, but I’ve been taking it game by game, and here we are in the Euros final.”
The teenager praised the team spirit that propelled England to the final. “Everyone’s buzzing,” he said. “We’ve built on each performance, and the only way is up. We have a chance to make history.”
Mainoo highlighted the midfield control established by himself, Phil Foden, Declan Rice, and Jude Bellingham in the first half, crediting the entire squad for their resilience in the second half. He also acknowledged the impact of substitutes Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins, particularly Watkins’ match-winning goal.
Mainoo’s meteoric rise extends beyond the international stage. He enjoyed a breakout season at Manchester United in the Premier League, featuring in 33 games and scoring in their FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. This capped a successful season for the Red Devils under manager Erik ten Hag, who secured their second major trophy in two years.