I'm sorry Bellingham, I'm sorry Real Madrid. Kobbie Mainoo is the new generation of football.pic.twitter.com/3WjHtk0vsN

— 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐭 (@UTDMist) February 19, 2024

Mainoo actually outperformed midfield partner Casemiro, who was lucky to not be sent off after a mistimed challenge on Ross Barkley while on a yellow card.Casemiro had to be hooked at half-time to avoid a dismissal, while Mainoo played the full 90 minutes to an exceptionally high level.

He did receive a caution in the second half, though replays showed he had clearly won the ball.Mainoo is the real deal and even though he’s a new kid on the block with 11 starts to his name, genuinely looks ready for the international stage.Gareth Southgate was in attendance at Villa Park last week to see Mainoo in the flesh and plenty of people are calling for him to be fast-tracked into the England squad.

One of the most high-profile to do so is former Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright, who took to X to shower him with praise.He wrote: “Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad. Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we’ve not seen from a England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him.”Gary Lineker was inclined to concur with the statement, adding: “Agreed @IanWright0.

What a fabulous young player.”Mainoo has represented England at various youth levels but is also eligible to play for Ghana through his parents.He is yet to make a decision on his international future but you sense that it might just be in England’s best interest to get him in the mix soon.