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Kobbie Mainoo is fast becoming one of the most technically accomplished players in the England camp, impressing even his fellow teammates with his flair during training sessions. The Manchester United midfielder has drawn attention for his exceptional ball control as Thomas Tuchel’s squad gets ready for the World Cup campaign in the United States.

Mainoo’s technical brilliance shines in Florida

The young Manchester United star has quickly emerged as a central figure in the England squad, admired not only for his composure on the field but also for his skillful displays during practice. At the Three Lions’ training base in Florida, Mainoo’s composure and ability to control the ball in confined spaces have become one of the main talking points among players.

In a recent episode of the Lions’ Den, Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento singled out the 21-year-old as the outstanding performer in training. When asked about a moment that made him stop and take notice, Livramento immediately mentioned the Manchester United academy graduate as the player who has impressed him the most.

Livramento praises the ‘two-touch’ expert

According to Livramento, Mainoo’s technical ability is far beyond what many anticipated, showcasing a creative flair that is rare even on the international stage. The defender pointed out that Mainoo’s knack for keeping the ball moving with minimal touches makes him extremely difficult to defend against in close quarters.

“One thing that stands out is watching Kobbie play two-touch. He’s so good at two-touch. He’ll be passing it or flicking it with his ankle and that,” Livramento shared.

Speed and passing excellence in the England camp

Mainoo wasn’t the only player earning praise during the training camp. Goalkeeper James Trafford and Livramento also discussed the traits they would most like to borrow from their fellow internationals. While Mainoo was admired for his technique, others were recognised for their athleticism and creativity.

Trafford revealed he was most envious of the blistering pace of forwards Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford. “The first one that came to my head was Ant’s or Rashy’s pace,” he admitted.

Livramento, meanwhile, looked to Arsenal’s midfield maestro for inspiration, saying: “I’ll say Eberechi Eze’s passing. Yeah. I’ll take Ebs’ passing.”

Life off the field

Despite the high expectations surrounding the team, the mood in Florida remains upbeat. Away from football, the duo also shared what their lives might have looked like had they not turned professional.

Livramento joked that he would probably have ended up in the corporate world, saying: “I’d probably be in sales.” Trafford, staying true to his rural roots, had a simpler dream: “I’d be a farmer,” he said when asked what he would be doing if he weren’t England’s goalkeeper.