This is why he is better than every other midfielder in that England squad including Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmar. Only world class players plays like him. He has everything to be the England captain one day”- Fans left in shock as Kobbie Mainoo left a mark in the team after a world-class performance that left everyone comparing him to Jude Bellingham.

In the aftermath of England’s unexpected defeat to Iceland at Wembley Stadium, Kobbie Mainoo remains steadfast, expressing unwavering belief in the team’s enduring spirit. The Three Lions had anticipated a victorious farewell in their final match before the Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia. However, a lackluster performance shattered their aspirations, leaving the crowd disheartened and vocal in their discontent.

Despite the collective frustration and boos at the final whistle, Mainoo, who played the entire match, displayed a sense of optimism that bordered on defiance. When asked if the defeat affected the team’s morale, he responded emphatically, “Not at all! We know the quality we have in the changing room, and now we just have to show the fans we’re good enough and can compete in Germany.”

For Mainoo, the loss was not a blow to confidence but a rallying cry for unity and determination. He stated, “I think going into a tournament after a loss can be a good thing. We’ve got a point to prove to ourselves because we know we’re better than that and play much better football. It was humbling, and we have to come together now.”

Mainoo viewed the defeat as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection, a chance to harness the disappointment and turn it into motivation. “We’ve got a chip on our shoulder and must come together with the motivation to prove a point in that first game. If we’re not winning, we’re learning. Any chance to learn is a good opportunity, and it’s better now than in nine days,” he proclaimed, with a determination that belied his young age.

England manager Gareth Southgate also acknowledged the disappointment but remained steadfast, dismissing any cause for panic. Speaking to the media after the match, he admitted, “You’d like a good performance, an entertained crowd, and to be leaving on a high. Clearly, the performance wasn’t at the level it needed to be.”

Despite the setback, Southgate found reasons for optimism, identifying areas for improvement and stressing the importance of maintaining focus and composure in adversity. “The most disappointing part tonight was our pressing,” he noted. “We didn’t press well and were too stretched. In the last two or three games, we’ve been excellent at that, so that’s something we need to rectify.”

With a resolute determination, Southgate vowed to address the deficiencies exposed by the defeat, emphasizing the need to fine-tune the team’s tactics before their crucial encounter with Serbia. “We know what needs to be put right, and we’ll work on that between now and the game with Serbia,” he declared.

In light of their defeat to Iceland, Kobbie Mainoo and Gareth Southgate stand as symbols of resilience and determination. Their unwavering belief in the team’s ability to overcome adversity inspires both fans and players. As England prepares for their Euro 2024 campaign, the echoes of disappointment are met with renewed determination, as the Three Lions vow to rise from the ashes of defeat and demonstrate their mettle on the European stage.