Manchester United's new star might start in the World Cup, hoping to repeat his Euro 2024 heroics! A Manchester City newcomer's injury opens the door

Manchester United's 21-year-old prodigy Kobbie Mainoo hasn't made an appearance in this World Cup yet, but his big chance is on the horizon. Following a muscle injury to Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice's hamstring issues requiring rest, Mainoo may get to play—or even start—in the last group game against Panama.

Mainoo has experienced a similar scenario before. At the European Championship two years ago, he played just four minutes in the first two group games but later became a key figure, starting the final in Berlin. In the third group match of that tournament, he didn't start either, coming off the bench in the second half to replace Conor Gallagher—but after that, he held his place, starting all four knockout matches.

Before this World Cup, Mainoo was sidelined due to a poor relationship with head coach Ruben Amorim, which led to his omission from the England squad and an 18-month absence. However, after Michael Carrick took over, Mainoo's fortunes changed; his form improved significantly, and he became a more complete midfielder.

Of course, the competition he faces now is fiercer. Rice's starting spot is unquestionable, while Nottingham Forest's Anderson was identified by Thomas Tuchel as the ideal partner for the Arsenal star. In matches against Croatia and Ghana, Tuchel opted for a midfield trio of Anderson, Rice, and Jude Bellingham. But Anderson, who is set to join Manchester City for £116 million, has picked up an injury, opening the door for Mainoo.

Although Mainoo lacks Rice's versatility and set-piece ability, and his passing range is not as wide as Anderson's, the Manchester United starlet has his own strengths. Tuchel needs a player who can receive the ball in midfield and drive past opponents to break down packed defenses, and Mainoo could be the better choice to start against Panama.

In the 0-0 draw with Ghana, England struggled with passing and composure under pressure—areas where Mainoo excels. Tuchel brought on Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze, but the Three Lions still lacked creativity, so he may turn to Mainoo.

According to the Daily Mail, Tuchel had Mainoo playing in midfield during training sessions ahead of the match, raising the possibility that the Manchester United prodigy could start against Panama. Legend Rio Ferdinand also backed Mainoo's inclusion: "Anderson and Rice are excellent at winning the ball back and stopping opponents from controlling it. But carrying the ball out of defense and delivering it accurately to teammates in more dangerous attacking areas isn't their strength. So who will take on that task? I think Kobbie (Mainoo) can handle it in the group stage."

Ferdinand added: "He has the ability to break the first line of pressure, then either keep dribbling or pass to bypass the opponent's high press. He's better than Declan (Rice) and Anderson in this regard because it's his strength. I also think we should consider his past performances. In my view, Kobbie's best displays of his entire career came in England's last European Championship—he was our best player in that tournament."

Ferdinand believes Mainoo's style suits cup competitions. "People compare him to Seedorf, and I think Kobbie is suited to international football because most of the game is slower-paced, and he's the kind of player who can change the rhythm. In contrast, Declan and Anderson have somewhat similar characteristics."

Brazil captain Casemiro also praised his Manchester United teammate, calling him the best in his position. "In my opinion, Kobbie is an exceptional player. He is Manchester United's present and future," Casemiro said. "I believe that over the next decade, the club will have the best No.8 in the country and even the world. He loves football and is an incredible midfielder."