Manchester United fans are in agreement on a “confident” performance from one of Rúben Amorim’s stars against Leeds United in pre-season.
Manchester United kicked off their pre-season campaign with a 0-0 draw against fellow Premier League side Leeds United in Stockholm, Sweden.
Rúben Amorim’s side came under early pressure but gradually grew into the game, eventually taking control. Striker Chido Obi had a couple of half-chances, while new signing Matheus Cunha impressed with his energy and intent. Despite some positive attacking play, the first half ended goalless.
Amorim made several changes at the break, introducing Kobbie Mainoo, Leny Yoro, and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu.
United looked more composed in the second half, but Leeds began to find their rhythm too. United pushed for a winner late on, creating a handful of chances, but neither side could find the net as the match ended in a stalemate.
Leon provides “confident” display vs Leeds
While Cunha’s start was expected, many were surprised to see that Amorim had also chosen to hand 18-year-old Diego Leon his first unofficial start for the club just a few weeks after joining from Paraguay.
Leon was playing ahead of Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu as the left wing-back and put in a surprisingly “confident” performance, considering it was his first taste of English football.
The young star had 29 touches across his 45 minutes, including two in Leeds’ area, and was only dispossessed once. He also completed 12 of his 15 attempted passes.
He won his only tackle as well as three of his six attempted duels, making three recoveries and giving away no fouls as he linked up with Cunha.
Leon is already proving Amorim correct
When United announced the signing of Leon, many questioned what this meant for Harry Amass, as all indications had previously suggested that Amorim was planning to keep the Academy talent in his squad next season.
However, news broke earlier this week that, following two weeks of training, Amorim had chosen to keep Leon in the squad for pre-season and send Amass out on loan, producing somewhat of a U-turn on the youngster’s future.
While many were initially sceptical as Amass had impressed toward the back end of last season, Leon’s 45 minutes against Leeds have put many at ease.
With United not expecting to sign another left-sided defender this summer and Amass heading out on loan, the 18-year-old is already justifying why he should be given a chance as Dorgu’s understudy next season.
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