Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim drafted Godwill Kukonki into first-team training, as per reports.
The former Benfica midfielder cemented his place as a Sporting CP legend by ending the Lions’ long wait for a league trophy in 2021.
Apart from his tactical astuteness and charismatic personality, the focus on building his side around young players made Amorim an instant favourite in Lisbon and also made him one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe.
Accordingly, Amorim’s arrival at Carrington has intensified the excitement among the United faithful about the club’s famed academy.
Both Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo enjoyed their breakthroughs into the first team under Erik ten Hag, but considering the abundance of highly-rated young stars at the club, many expected the Dutchman to take more of an interest in the academy.
Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report suggesting Bendito Mantato, 16, could be promoted to first-team by the club’s new head coach.
Now, according to the Manchester Evening News, another academy prospect has caught the attention of Amorim. The Portuguese tactician took his first training session as United head coach on Monday, and reportedly handed Kukonki his first training experience with the senior side at Carrington.
The 16-year-old central defender has raised plenty of eyebrows with his performances for the Under-18s, having made eight appearances in the U18 Premier League. He also has one start and an assist to his name in the UEFA Youth League.
Accordingly, he was “given the opportunity to step up to senior training for the first time.”
The 6ft 5ins talent, who is also capable of playing at left-back, has earned comparisons to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, as he possesses impeccable technical ability and is a left-footed defender.
While being part of Amorim’s first session represents “a huge milestone” for Kukonki, it wouldn’t surprise many if he soon becomes a regular fixture, as left-footed defenders are highly coveted. Currently, Lisandro Martinez is the only natural left-footed centre-back at Old Trafford.
Moreover, Amorim, who deploys three central defenders due to his unshakable belief in the 3-4-3 formation, has set his sights on another young centre-back. It is understood the 39-year-old is looking forward to working with Leny Yoro, whom he considers a “generational talent”.
Featured image Emilio Andreoli via Getty Images
Vishal Singh
Vishal has covered football for over five years. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person. Big fan of ball-playing center-backs!
