Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has sent a touching personal message to Kobbie Mainoo ahead of the young midfielder’s World Cup debut for England. The Red Devils’ all-time top scorer praised the 21-year-old as a role model for the next generation at Old Trafford — including his own son, Kai Rooney.

A legend’s words of encouragement

Mainoo’s swift rise from academy prospect to full England international has captured global attention, and Wayne Rooney is among those most impressed. As Mainoo prepares for England’s World Cup opener against Croatia, he received a moving message of support from the man who once carried the nation’s hopes himself.

Currently based in North America as part of the tournament’s broadcast team, Rooney took time to express how much Mainoo’s progress means to everyone back in Manchester. After receiving the heartfelt note, Mainoo shared its content, which highlighted how his success is inspiring the club’s current youth players.

Inspiration for the next generation

Rooney’s message, shared through BBC Sport, carried deep personal significance — especially with regard to his son, Kai Rooney, who is currently excelling in Manchester United’s youth setup. “Hi Kobbie, just a message to say good luck at the World Cup,” the former striker wrote. “Just be yourself and you’ll be a star there, mate. Also, how you have handled everything this season has been a lesson to all young football players, a great example to young and old players.”

He continued, emphasising Mainoo’s influence on young players at the club: “And finally, you might not see, but having two lads in the United Academy, you should realise you are an inspiration to them and to the young lads there. Keep doing what you are doing. Be yourself. Much love, Wazza.” The reference to Kai, who broke into the Under-18 squad during the 2025–26 season, highlights the benchmark Mainoo has set for others.

Overcoming challenges at Old Trafford

Mainoo’s journey to international football has not been smooth. The 21-year-old had to show great patience and professionalism under head coach Ruben Amorim last season. His perseverance paid off when Michael Carrick introduced him to the starting lineup, where he quickly became a crucial part of the Manchester United midfield.

His development is now seen as a model within the Carrington academy. By thriving under Premier League pressure and earning a place in the England squad, Mainoo has demonstrated that the route to the top remains open for talented and disciplined young players.

World Cup ambitions for the Three Lions

In response, a smiling Mainoo described Wayne Rooney as one of his biggest inspirations. The message arrives at the perfect moment, as Thomas Tuchel’s England side prepare for their World Cup Group L campaign, beginning against Croatia on Wednesday. The Three Lions will then face Ghana and Panama as they aim to reach the knockout stages.

With the backing of Manchester United’s greatest-ever goalscorer, Mainoo steps into the tournament as a central figure in England’s midfield. His journey from academy hopeful to a “source of inspiration” for players like Kai Rooney signals the start of what many expect to be a long, successful career for both club and country.

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