Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 30 April 2026 14:10, UK

James Garner and Kobbie Mainoo both have a similar story, having come through the Manchester United academy before he arrived at Everton.

Garner, however, would ultimately have to leave the 20-time English top-flight champions in order to kick his career into gear.

Since the move away, he has been on the up and up at Everton, earning his first England call-up and surely being on the plane set for North America this summer.

In all likelihood, the Everton ace will be joined by Mainoo, who at one point could have been an Everton player as well.

However, news has since emerged of the Manchester United midfielder agreeing to a new deal, with Garner reacting, as any Everton transfer has been put to bed.

How did James Garner react to Kobbie Mainoo contract news?

There has been some interconnectivity between Garner, Everton, Mainoo and Manchester United in recent months.

Mainoo was linked with a move to Everton amid uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford under Ruben Amorim.

Additionally, Garner, who came through the Red Devils’ academy, had emerged as a target for the Manchester club, with a return mooted.

However, both have since signed new long-term deals at their respective clubs, with Garner now reacting to the recent contract news.

Mainoo posted on Instagram stating: “Proud to sign for 5 more years; blessed to call this place home.”

Garner would subsequently like the post, which likely signifies the end of any immediate transfer rumours on either end.

Everton fans could see a Garner and Mainoo midfield combination this summer

Mainoo signing a new contract for Manchester United should simmer down any talk of Garner heading back to Old Trafford, but more so, it ends the Toffees’ hopes of landing the midfielder.

Everton fans won’t mind too much, with Garner remaining at Hill Dickinson the biggest priority. While he has also signed a new deal in 2026, contracts in football are not set-in-stone agreements a player will remain.

Nonetheless, for any Everton supporter who was excited about a chance to see a combination of Garner and Mainoo, they could be paired alongside each other this summer at the World Cup.

Tuchel is seemingly a big fan of the Everton ace, previously comparing him to Champions League winner Federico Valverde.

Based on that, it would now be a surprise if he were snubbed for the 2026 World Cup, with the midfielder capable of playing in numerous positions.

While Everton supporters appreciate Garner highly, his acclaim in the football world could reach new heights this summer.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.