Manchester United duo Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford played the first 45 minutes in England’s friendly match against New Zealand on Saturday night.
Thomas Tuchel included just two Manchester United players in his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Kobbie Mainoo made the cut along with Marcus Rashford, but there was no room for defensive duo Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw.
England took on New Zealand on Saturday to prepare for the tournament ahead. The match took place in Florida.
Which Manchester United player will have the most successful World Cup 2026?
Who are you most excited to watch?
Tidy display from Kobbie Mainoo against New Zealand
Mainoo was tasked with forming a midfield pivot with Brentford’s Jordan Henderson. It was his second-ever start under Tuchel.
Rarely under pressure, Mainoo breezed through the first 45 minutes and was easily the better of England’s central duo which provided a mixture of youth and experience.
In the 29th minute, Mainoo sent an effort just over the bar as he struggled to keep it on target.
The young United midfielder played some clever passes out wide to help England keep the pressure on New Zealand.
Mainoo completed 33/37 (89%) of his passes and created one chance. He also touched the ball 47 times and made three passes into the final third.
- ⚡️ Kobbie Mainoo made his second start under Thomas Tuchel against New Zealand
- It was England’s only pre-World Cup friendly match
- Mainoo sent an effort from distance over the bar after 29 minutes
Who is the best Man Utd player to never play at a World Cup? 🏆🤔
Man Utd had a Ballon d'Or winner who never played at a World Cup.
Marcus Rashford causes havoc on both flanks for England
Throughout the first half, Rashford switched positions multiple times.
The United forward, who spent the past season on loan at Barcelona, caused New Zealand problems from both flanks. He had a dangerous effort blocked after a counter-attack from the left and, just minutes later, he danced his way through the opposing full-back.
Rashford also came close to setting up Harry Kane with a delightful cross, but the Bayern Munich centre-back only managed to get a corner kick for his efforts.
It was a lively – at best – display from Rashford. Tuchel will appreciate the versatility he showed across the attacking positions. He caused more danger than Rogers.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
