Wayne Rooney believes Kobbie Mainoo will score for England in the Euro 2024 final.
Mainoo is set to start for the Three Lions against Spain on Sunday as they look to clinch a first senior men’s trophy since 1966.
The 19-year-old’s trajectory to England starter has been monumental having only broken into the Manchester United team this season.
The midfielder made his England debut in March and was not even a starter at the beginning of the tournament.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher were played alongside Declan Rice, but when Mainoo was given his chance he never let go.
Man United and England legend Rooney thinks Mainoo will have a huge say on the final.
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“I just have a feeling about Mainoo,” Rooney told The Times. “That he is going to score and prove decisive.
“If you think of him in the tournament, he has got into good positions going forward and I think Spain will do their homework and close off space for Harry Kane, [Phil] Foden, Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham.
“But that will leave space for a midfielder arriving late, and that Mainoo will get one from a cut-back.”
Mainoo scored in the FA Cup final against Man City, playing against Spaniard Rodri, and Rooney sees it happening again.
“It was Mainoo who did it and then, when Manchester United had the ball, ran off Rodri and scored,” Rooney added. “He was man of the match.”
talkSPORT will bring you live commentary of the Euro 2024 final on Sunday as England bid to make history against Spain. Tune in via the website or the app, and follow our live Euro 2024 blog for all the build-up.
News Summary:
- ‘I have a feeling’ – Wayne Rooney names England star he predicts will score in Euro 2024 final against Spain
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