Sidelined at the World Cup, Rashford returns: what future for the
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
The 2026 World Cup offered a mixed picture for Manchester United's English players. Kobbie Mainoo, the only outfield player not to have played, must recover from his injury and prepare for his return, while Marcus Rashford plans to return to Old Trafford after a loan at Barcelona which did not turn into a permanent transfer. This takes stock of the consequences for both players and their prospects at their original club.
According to News.
Why it matters
Kobbie Mainoo, as Manchester United's young talent, has seen his role limited in the 2026 World Cup, failing to play a single minute. This raises questions about his development and integration into the first team, especially after a promising season in the Premier League. His ability to retain possession could be crucial to the team's future, especially at a time when the performances of England's players are under scrutiny.
Key points
- Sidelined at the World Cup, Rashford back: what future for them.
- The 2026 World Cup offered a mixed picture for Manchester United's English players.
- Sidelined Mainoo and returning Rashford: What next for Manchester United’s England players? - The Athletic.
For several major tournaments, Manchester United has often faced the need to protect its English players after criticized performances during World Cups or European Championships, as with David Beckham in 1998, Phil Neville in 2000 or even Wayne Rooney in 2006. This time, the 2026 World Cup does not cause similar tensions, but certain players from the Mancunian club nevertheless attract attention, like Kobbie Mainoo.
Kobbie Mainoo was the only outfield player in England's 26-member squad not to have played a single minute in the eight matches played in the United States and Mexico. His situation is challenging, especially when we consider that Thomas Tuchel, national coach, pointed out the loss of the ball at the crucial moment of the semi-final lost against Argentina, and the need to better retain the ball, a quality that Mainoo particularly masters. Indeed, his ability to protect the ball in small spaces is recognized, as demonstrated by his duel at Euro 2024 against Rodri, Spanish captain and Ballon d'Or that year.
Unfortunately, during the tournament, Mainoo was often confined to the bench and then suffered an injury in training, a severe back pain which cost him the opportunity to play in the third place match against France. Fortunately, it is a minor injury which should not affect his return to Manchester United. He will benefit from a period of mental and physical rest after this personal poor performance, which should help him return with the same combativeness which had allowed him to win since the arrival of Michael Carrick at the head of the team.
Image
Marcus Rashford, for his part, had a more active World Cup, with a goal scored against Croatia and a memorable assist on a Bukayo Saka goal against France, in a match where England delivered a remarkable performance in the first half. Rashford has played 223 minutes across six games, displaying a level that suggests he remains a major attacking threat. However, his future at Manchester United remains uncertain after FC Barcelona's refusal to exercise the purchase option for 30 million euros.
Rashford's return to Old Trafford is now the subject of discussion, especially as the club has recruited other attacking profiles and its salary demands place him among the highest paid in the locker room. Nevertheless, at 28 years old, he remains a talented player likely to fully integrate into Carrick's system, especially as his usual number, 10, has been taken over by Matheus Cunha this season. However, the number 14, which he wore during his loan in La Liga, is still available.
Other players like Harry Maguire, Ayden Heaven, Mason Mount and Luke Shaw, who also participated in the World Cup, returned to training and played friendly matches with United, allowing them to finish preparation in good physical condition. With the resumption of the Premier League scheduled for August 22 against Hull City, Manchester United hopes that its England internationals will quickly return to their best level, stimulating the ambitions of a club in search of European and domestic success.
The rest
Mainoo is expected to be given a period of rest to recover from his back injury, allowing him to return to form at Manchester United. With the return of Marcus Rashford and other players, he will have the opportunity to prove his worth in the upcoming Premier League matches. Expectations are high for him, and his development will be closely monitored by the club's supporters and coaches.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Kobbie Mainoo?
Kobbie Mainoo is a Manchester United player, known for his ability to protect the ball in tight spaces.
Why didn't Kobbie Mainoo play in the 2026 World Cup?
Kobbie Mainoo was the only England outfield player not to play a minute in eight matches at the 2026 World Cup.
What is Marcus Rashford's current situation?
The article mentions Marcus Rashford, but
does not provide specific details about his current situation.
How will Kobbie Mainoo's injury affect his return to Manchester United?
Kobbie Mainoo's injury is considered minor and is not expected to affect his return to Manchester United.
What is Michael Carrick's role at Manchester United?
Michael Carrick is the manager of Manchester United, and Kobbie Mainoo has established himself under his leadership.
Related Articles
Frequently asked questions
📰Related articles
- Casemiro talks about his development at Manchester United: “I grew as a player and as a man”
- James Trafford thanks Manchester City fans as departure considered this summer
- James Trafford favorite for Newcastle move after leaving Manchester City
- Manchester City ready to make second offer for Elliot Anderson
- Rico Lewis reassesses his options ahead of possible Manchester City departure
- UEFA unanimously votes to boycott FIFA competitions
- Second confederation to reject FIFA's plan to privatize