One Manchester United player saw his World Cup campaign end in the newly introduced round of 32, but seven Reds remain in the hunt for success as we approach the last 16.
The Ivory Coast’s 2-1 defeat against Norway spelled the end of Amad Diallo’s 2026 World Cup journey.
Although Amad was regrettably benched for Nicolas Pepe, the Manchester United winger will return from the tournament having scored two goals and given a very good account of himself.
Without further ado, and dwelling on Amad not reaching the latter knockout rounds, United In Focus takes a look at every United player left in the World Cup ahead of the round of 16.
What is your message to Kobbie Mainoo after Thomas Tuchel overlooked him for England again?
Mainoo has played 0 minutes in England's opening four games…
Morocco – Noussair Mazraoui
Noussair Mazraoui has been among United’s best performers at the 2026 World Cup, playing a key role in their win over the Netherlands in the previous round on penalties.
In the round of 16, the United full-back will be hoping to use his experience to help guide Morocco into the quarter-finals by beating Canada.
Brazil – Matheus Cunha
Casemiro no longer belongs on this list as his contract has expired. The Brazilian veteran midfielder is expected to join Inter Miami as a free agent this summer.
However, more importantly for United fans is Matheus Cunha’s performances at the World Cup. He’s been brilliant since giving a starting role under Carlo Ancelotti, with three goals to his name.
Brazil face Norway in the next round on Sunday.
England – Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford
While Marcus Rashford has been in and out of the England team, Thomas Tuchel has yet to give any minutes to Kobbie Mainoo.
Paul Scholes doesn’t think Mainoo will play against Mexico when England try to book their place in the quarter-finals.
Thomas Tuchel needs a midfield that doesn’t threaten the ball like a hot potato. Maybe someone needs to tell him that Mainoo fits the bill, but it’s no loss to United if he comes back to Manchester fully recharged later this summer.
Portugal – Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot
Bruno Fernandes is a key player in the Portugal team, but Roberto Martinez surprised a few when he hooked the United captain off in the 2-1 win over Croatia.
Fernandes’ compatriot and United teammate Diogo Dalot has had to settle for substitute cameos.
However, Portugal faces a brilliant Spain side on Monday night. It’s arguably the best tie of the round.
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Argentina – Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez is a top performer for Argentina, scoring and assisting in their dramatic round of 32 win over debutants Cape Verde.
Argentina want to continue their quest for back-to-back World Cups when they take on Egypt in the last 16 on Tuesday.
Martinez’s road to recovery has been remarkable. Now he’s starring at the World Cup.
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