Paul Scholes Slams Tuchel’s World Cup Snub: ‘It’s Anyone But Kobbie Mainoo’

**Paul Scholes has blasted Thomas Tuchel’s decision to ignore Kobbie Mainoo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup**, calling the England manager’s approach baffling. On *The Good, The Bad & The Football* podcast, Scholes said: *“It seems like it’s anybody but Kobbie Mainoo for Thomas Tuchel at the minute.”***

Mainoo, 21, has been a substitute in all six of England’s matches despite dominating Manchester United’s midfield. Under Michael Carrick, he started 16 of 17 games this season, forming a partnership with Casemiro that controlled games. Yet Tuchel has preferred Jordan Henderson-now sidelined with a broken hand-over the youngster.

Scholes dismissed suggestions Mainoo is a disciplinary issue. *“I can’t imagine Kobbie being a problem in the camp,”* he said. *“Only Tuchel will know why.”* The former United midfielder’s frustration reflects a wider debate: is Tuchel’s selection logic flawed, or is this a calculated risk?

Nicky Butt, another United legend, took a harder line. *“I actually hope Kobbie Mainoo doesn’t come on now,”* he told the same podcast. *“He’s probably so down-he’s not played, not kicked a football in a real game. If he goes in now, the only thing he can do is bad.”*

Butt’s warning comes as England face Argentina in the semi-finals on **Wednesday, 15 July**. Mainoo, who started England’s Euro 2024 final, has yet to earn Tuchel’s trust. The manager’s reluctance extends beyond Mainoo: Reece James, recovering from a hamstring injury, has also been overlooked.

England’s campaign hangs on Tuchel’s final decisions. Mainoo’s omission in the Norway quarter-final (2-1 win) suggests he’s far from a lock for Argentina. Butt’s advice-*“He won’t be the first to go to a World Cup and not play a minute”*-hints at a deeper issue: Tuchel’s reliance on proven players over raw talent.

Scholes’ intervention adds weight to the criticism. *“Every manager has their favourites,”* he admitted, *“but Kobbie’s form speaks for itself.”* With Henderson out and Mainoo’s future uncertain, the question remains: will Tuchel’s caution cost England dearly?

**Featured image by Molly Darlington/Getty Images**

*Source: Transfermarkt, The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast.*