Thomas Tuchel admits Kobbie Mainoo deserved World Cup chance

Thomas Tuchel has accepted responsibility for Kobbie Mainoo’s failure to feature for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting the Manchester United midfielder deserved an opportunity during the tournament.

Tuchel guided the Three Lions to the semi-finals, where they suffered defeat to Argentina before recovering to beat France in a dramatic third-place play-off.

Mainoo did not make a single appearance during England’s World Cup campaign despite being part of Tuchel’s squad, with the manager acknowledging that the decision was his own.

The 21-year-old was particularly unfortunate to miss out on an opportunity against France after suffering an injury in training ahead of the play-off.

Tuchel revealed he had intended to use Mainoo against Didier Deschamps’ side before the midfielder’s setback ruled him out.

Tuchel admits Mainoo was overlooked

Speaking after Mainoo returned to Manchester United, Tuchel conceded that the midfielder had done little to justify being left out of the team.

“The World Cup was totally on me. He didn’t put a foot wrong, he was class in his behaviour and on the training pitch. It was a big competition for places.”

Tuchel explained that England’s midfield selection was influenced by the form and qualities of other players, with Reece James used centrally alongside Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice.

“We also played with Reece James in central midfield. Elliot Anderson was fantastic for us. Declan Rice is a very unique player.”

“So we trusted them more than we trusted Kobbie. It was difficult for him.”

The decision ultimately left Mainoo without a minute on the biggest stage, despite his performances in training and his reputation as one of England’s emerging midfielders.

Mainoo set for Nations League chance

Mainoo has since returned to club football and has played an important role for Manchester United under Michael Carrick at the start of the new season.

His club form has strengthened the case for a greater role with England, and Tuchel has indicated that the midfielder will be given an opportunity during the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.

The England manager also admitted that Mainoo’s late injury made his World Cup omission even more difficult to accept.

“He was then injured before the France game, so we could not even give him minutes there, which hurt me.”

Tuchel believes Mainoo deserved to be rewarded for his professionalism throughout the tournament and has taken personal responsibility for ensuring he gets that opportunity with England.

“Maybe he was more hurt than me, but it was my responsibility, and it’s my responsibility to reward him for that.”

With Mainoo now playing regularly for Manchester United, Tuchel faces a chance to make amends by handing him a more prominent role when England return to Nations League action.