Mainoo Could Play For England U21
Kobbie Mainoo’s long wait for an England recall may not end with a return to the senior side, as the Manchester United midfielder is now being considered for the Under-21 squad instead. The 20-year-old has endured a frustrating spell at club level since Ruben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag last autumn, losing his place in the starting eleven.
Mainoo has been told to compete with Bruno Fernandes for a midfield spot, a battle that currently seems unwinnable. As a result, he has featured for only 113 minutes in the Premier League this season and is reportedly unsettled. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, he is eager to revive his international prospects, having last been called up to Thomas Tuchel’s senior squad in September 2024.
England U21 boss Lee Carsley has confirmed that both Mainoo and Adam Wharton remain in his plans. He said that the pair are still viewed as senior-level players but could be drafted into the youth side to maintain their rhythm and confidence. While such a move might feel like a step back for a player with ten senior caps, it could prove beneficial. A strong showing among his peers would remind Tuchel of Mainoo’s quality, especially as the England manager is expected to monitor U21 performances closely. Even with limited club minutes, a dominant spell at youth level could help reignite his case for a senior recall.
Could United Get New Owners?
Manchester United may soon face another ownership shake-up, as reports suggest that Arab investors are exploring a potential takeover. The Glazer family, who have controlled the club for two decades, still own the majority of shares despite selling 27.7 percent to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS in early 2024. That deal gave Ratcliffe sporting control, but on-pitch results have yet to improve, with United finishing a disastrous 15th last season.
Supporters have continued their protests against the Glazers, demanding a complete sale. The speculation intensified after Saudi sports figure Turki Al-Sheikh posted on social media that takeover talks were at an advanced stage, though he later clarified the investors were not from Saudi Arabia. Journalist Chris Wheeler later reported that discussions are indeed ongoing but remain preliminary, contrary to Al-Sheikh’s dramatic claims.
According to Wheeler, the interested group is based in the United Arab Emirates, not Qatar, and the Glazers are believed to be seeking around £5 billion for their shares. Ratcliffe could be powerless to intervene, as his agreement includes a “drag-along” clause allowing the family to negotiate and finalise a full sale without his consent. While early-stage talks do not guarantee a deal, the possibility of new ownership has once again given supporters a glimmer of hope for change at Old Trafford.