Thomas Tuchel told his Kobbie Mainoo treatment is ‘totally unfair’ after England coach criticises Man Utd midfielder

Mainoo was something of a surprise call-up to England’s 2026 World Cup squad in the first place, having been selected ahead of Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Everton midfielder James Garner. Despite that vote of confidence from Tuchel at the squad selection stage, he has yet to feature at the tournament, adding further intrigue to his situation heading into the final match in North America.

Warnock went on to question the logic behind whatever decision Tuchel ultimately makes over Mainoo’s involvement. “Will he play him now, and then he has a fantastic game and make Tuchel look stupid? Or does he just not bother playing in case he has a good game?” he asked. “I don’t think he’ll play him, but listen, he should do now. He should give everybody a game, shouldn’t he?”