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Kobbie Mainoo, the midfielder for Manchester United, disclosed that he thought about representing Ghana instead of the Three Lions before joining the team. Mainoo, who was born in the UK to Ghanaian parents, debuted for the England national team versus Brazil in March of this year.
Prior to making his team debut under Gareth Southgate, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) had their eye on the 19-year-old midfielder. Mainoo played in England's spirited 1-0 victory over Serbia in the 2024 European Championship, which is currently taking place in Germany.
Mainoo acknowledged that he is fond of his Ghanaian origin and has thought about playing for the Black Stars in remarks made before their second Group C match against Denmark on Thursday. But he claimed that representing England is an ambition that came true. He spoke to the press as he said that, “I’m proud of my Ghanaian heritage but it has always been a dream to play for England. I’m happy to be here. I considered it, but I want to play for England”
Mainoo had only made three starts for the England team before Sunday's encounter, but he was still eligible for a spot with the Black Stars should he so choose. In his first season at Manchester United, Kobbie Mainoo earned 25 appearances and netted three goals. He scored the game-winning goal to help Manchester United upset Manchester City and win the FA Cup to cap off his season.
“I can't thank him enough” : Kobbie Mainoo on Erik Ten Hag
According to Kobbie Mainoo, Erik ten Hag is going to keep managing Manchester United, providing players with "peace of mind" as well as a chance to win more titles in the upcoming season.
He said that, "Obviously happy to be building with him, he's already got two trophies so hopefully there is more to come. It is nice to have that peace of mind that we know which manager we are going back to next season. I'm so grateful to him that he put so much trust in me and believed in me to play in the team and I can't thank him enough."