Forget Lacey: Amorim could hand surprise Man United debut to 17yo sensation vs Aston Villa
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim is set to ring the changes as his side prepare for a daunting trip to Villa Park.
The Red Devils will face high-flying Aston Villa in the Premier League today.
That growing list of absentees could open the door for a rare academy-heavy matchday squad under the demanding Portuguese coach.
Shea Lacey, Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fredricson and Bendito Mantato are all in contention to make the bench.
Many eyes will naturally be drawn to the highly rated Lacey, with fans eager to see if he finally makes his senior debut.
However, we believe that United supporters must be more thrilled to see Mantato take the next step in his career.
Amorim has remained wedded to his 3-4-2-1 system, a shape that places huge responsibility on the wing-backs.
With both Diallo and Mazraoui unavailable, Mantato suddenly looks most naturally suited option for the right wing-back role.
The 17-year-old is a dynamic operator who has already showcased his adaptability as both a winger and a full-back.
He is already playing regularly for the United Under-21s, competing at a level well beyond his age group.
He has been capped at various youth levels by England.
The teenage sensation possesses great acceleration and has the ability to skip past his markers.
His tenacity and defensive discipline further explain why United have trusted him in deeper positions.
There is no doubt that Mantato has a bright future ahead.
Amorim is famously reluctant to hand out opportunities on reputation alone, and if Mantato gets his chance, he must seize it without hesitation.
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .