Mainoo’s value is clearest in crowded midfield areas. His close control and ability to carry the ball past pressure could give England the connective play they lacked against Ghana.
Reports suggest his improved club form since Michael Carrick’s appointment at Manchester United has pushed him back into the international conversation. That progress matters because Mainoo’s England career stalled for roughly 18 months after he appeared to establish himself during Euro 2024.
He has 14 caps, but his influence at that tournament grew rapidly once he entered the team.
Declan Rice’s fitness is another factor. Reports raised concerns about his condition after the Ghana match, creating uncertainty around the balance of Tuchel’s preferred midfield.
Elliot Anderson has been preferred alongside Rice so far, while Mainoo has watched from the bench. The choice is not simply about replacing one player with another:
England’s flat attacking display makes the third option more relevant, particularly if Rice is not fully fit.
Mainoo’s Euro 2024 experience gives the situation added weight. He played only four minutes across England’s first two group matches, then came on at half-time against Slovenia and kept his place throughout the knockout rounds.
England ultimately lost 2-1 to Spain in the final, but Mainoo’s rise demonstrated how quickly a tournament role can change. He may now have another opportunity to alter the midfield picture.
Panama is the next test. If Tuchel wants greater ball-carrying and control, Mainoo appears to be the clearest route to a different England performance.