Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo makes his debut for England – at just 18 years old.

What a couple of months it’s been for Kobbie Mainoo. From emerging into Manchester United’s first team squad to scoring a dramatic last-minute winner against Wolves, to now making your first start for your country – all in a few months work for the Manchester United man.

Gareth Southgate awarded Mainoo just 15 minutes last night, so he struggled to make any real impact – but best believe this won’t be the last time he dons the white of the Three Lions strip.

And seemingly most are in agreement about this.

Kobbie Mainoo of England looks on during the international friendly match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium on March 23, 2024 in London...
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images

Kobbie Mainoo sends message after England debut

The Manchester United academy graduate took to Instagram after the game to reflect on his Three Lions debut. He wrote:

‘Special feeling making my senior England debut at Wembley and in front of my family. A moment I will never forget. Now we bounce back and refocus for Tuesday.’

Although the result didn’t go according to plan, with fellow wonderkid Endrick scoring the only goal of the game to give the Brazilians a 1-0 victory – this day will stay with Mainoo for a lifetime.

But best believe he’s only just getting started.

Bruno Fernandes and Declan Rice react

Manchester United club captain Bruno Fernandes was one of the many players to comment underneath Kobbie’s post with his support for the youngster. He thinks Mainoo will have a long career ahead of him for England, which Arsenal star Declan Rice also seconded.

‘First of many’ and ‘Many more to come! Congrats bro’ the duo write.

We can’t help but feel inclined to agree. Mainoo has a long (and hopefully successful) career ahead of him for his country.

Who do England and Kobbie Mainoo face next?

Speaking of which, Mainoo should be in action again on Tuesday for Southgate’s side.

The Three Lions take on Belgium, once again at Wembley Stadium. Full details of the fixture are below.

Hopefully, Mainoo gets some more minutes on the board, and more importantly, comes back to Old Trafford unscathed.

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