Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly considering promoting a young prodigy to the first-team squad as he begins implementing his tactical vision at Old Trafford.
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Amorim officially assumed his role on Monday but was still working through final paperwork for his work permit before stepping onto the training pitch. ..Continue Reading
During this time, he has been meeting with players and laying out his initial expectations for training sessions at Carrington.
With United’s next game against Ipswich Town on November 24, Amorim faces a tight schedule to establish his preferred 3-4-3 system.
Complicating matters, some players are unfamiliar with the specialized roles required for this formation, particularly the wing-back positions.
Luke Shaw, who has experience as a wing-back with England under Gareth Southgate, is still regaining fitness, while Noussair Mazraoui is expected to fill the role on the right.
However, competition in this area is sparse, especially as Diogo Dalot is likely to be deployed on the left flank while Shaw and Tyrell Malacia recover from injuries.
Reports suggest Amorim is eyeing a promotion from United’s youth ranks to address these gaps. The Manchester Evening News has highlighted 16-year-old winger Bendito Mantato as a candidate for first-team action.
Amorim reportedly views Mantato as a versatile option who could operate as a wing-back on either side.
Mantato, who joined United’s academy in the summer, has been a key player for the U18 side and is also an England U17 international.
He was named on the U21 bench for a recent Bristol Street Motors Trophy match against Forest Green but didn’t make an appearance.
Known for his speed and dribbling ability, Mantato has drawn comparisons to Bukayo Saka within the club. Like Saka, he began his career in a defensive role and has the potential to transition into a more advanced position.
