Manchester United midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, proudly revealed his Ghanaian heritage, stating that both of his parents are of Ghanaian descent.
The Ghana Football Association were reportedly in contact with him to represent the Black Stars but he chose the Three Lions.
Mainoo expressed his delight after earning a spot in England manager Gareth Southgate’s squad for the upcoming international friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium in March.
The talented 18-year-old could potentially make his debut for England as they face Brazil at Wembley Stadium in preparation for Euro 2024 this summer.
Mainoo, speaking to the media ahead of the Brazil match, shared his surprise and excitement at being selected for the national team, emphasizing the support and excitement within his family.
“It’s been a pretty mad couple of days. Getting down here and realising that I was with the first-team was amazing. I was shocked and happy – and it’s been a whirlwind of emotions,” Mainoo said.
“But being at England is an amazing opportunity and I’m enjoying it so far. I think that is the end goal for the season, to get into that squad [for the Euros].
“Both [my] parents are Ghanaian and my whole childhood was football, really. It is just been football, football, football and I have enjoyed every second of it.”