England's Mainoo ruled out of World Cup third-place match

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been ruled out of England's final match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to an unspecified injury, concluding a tournament in which he failed to play a single minute. The 21-year-old was absent from the squad for England's third-place playoff against France, a match England won 6-4 on Saturday, July 18, in Miami.

Mainoo, who earned a place in manager Thomas Tuchel's squad after a strong second half of the Premier League season under Michael Carrick at Manchester United, was not utilized in any of England's eight matches in the United States and Mexico. Despite being fully available for selection until his late withdrawal, Tuchel consistently preferred other midfield options, including Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, and Jordan Henderson, and even deployed right-back Reece James in midfield ahead of the United academy graduate.

Reports indicate Mainoo has been left deeply disappointed by his lack of involvement, with his frustration becoming visible to observers. His situation drew criticism from several former England internationals, particularly following England's 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina, a match where...