England attacker Kobbie Mainoo is set to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place playoff against France tonight, July 18, in Miami. The 21-year-old sustained an injury during training, as confirmed by the FA, which will see him conclude his tournament campaign without making a single appearance.
Mainoo, who plays for Manchester United, was one of two outfield players in the squad who had yet to play in the tournament, alongside Trevoh Chalobah. His absence comes after a productive club season where he recorded one goal and three assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. His contributions helped Manchester United finish third in the Premier League, securing a return to the UEFA Champions League.
Prior to the tournament, Mainoo featured in England's 1-0 friendly win over New Zealand and made a substitute appearance against Costa Rica. However, he remained unused throughout the World Cup, which saw England's title hopes end in a semi-final defeat to Argentina. In that match, Thomas Tuchel’s side held a lead for 30 minutes before conceding twice in the final five minutes, with Lionel Messi setting up Enzo Fernandez for the 85th-minute equaliser and Lautaro Martinez for the winning goal seven minutes later. This followed a 3-3 draw in the previous round.
Meanwhile, France captain Kylian Mbappe is set to start in tonight's bronze final, which serves as the final match in charge for France manager Didier Deschamps. The Real Madrid striker endured a scoreless outing in the 2-0 semi-final loss to European champions France. With eight goals and three assists in seven games, the 28-year-old is chasing the Golden Boot. He is aiming to become the first player to win two FIFA World Cup Golden Boots, having previously claimed the honor in 2022.
England enters the match looking to secure their best finish at a World Cup in sixty years. Since their historic triumph six decades ago, the team has suffered defeat in three semi-final appearances, including this year's edition in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
However, the youngster didn't get game time in the tournament proper, where the Three Lions' hopes of a second title were dashed by holders Argentina in the semi-finals.Thomas Tuchel's side had led the holders for 30 minutes before the Albiceleste scored twice in the last five minutes.
