One Manchester United youngster should be in line for his professional debut during AFCON, as he could perfectly replace Amad for Rúben Amorim.
Manchester United have seen vast improvements this season, and the summer transfer business has been at the heart of it. Jason Wilcox’s mix of Premier League-proven stars and promising young players appears to have worked wonders.
Senne Lammens, the Andre Onana replacement, has been a breath of fresh air since he arrived from Royal Antwerp on Deadline Day. The young Belgian looks composed and measured in the United goal, two qualities that haven’t been seen since David de Gea left in 2022.
While Benjamin Šeško is yet to find his RB Leipzig form in a United shirt, the Slovenian has shown signs of why United bought him. His injury against Tottenham Hotspur will be a huge concern for Rúben Amorim and his staff.
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo were the most experienced signings of the summer. Both joined the club to play in the attacking midfield roles, and they have been exceptional, although United will be without Mbeumo in just over one month.
Alongside Amad and Noussair Mazraoui, Mbeumo will depart Old Trafford for the African Cup of Nations in the middle of December. While Mbeumo and Mazraoui have natural replacements – Mason Mount and Diogo Dalot – nobody can replace Amad’s profile as a left-footer at right-wing-back.
Amorim must consider Mantato debut
Amad’s absence will be huge for United, especially if the Ivorian reaches the latter stages of the competition, as he could miss games against Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Manchester City. His profile is difficult for teams to deal with, but United don’t have another player like him in the squad.
Patrick Dorgu has deputised as a right-wing-back on occasion for United, but his performance from the left against Tottenham Hotspur should seal his future on that side. Dalot, who replaced Dorgu against Spurs, has been struggling for form this season on both sides and should be set for a spell on the substitutes’ bench.
Diego Leon could play on that side, but he has yet to play on his natural flank for United, so a switch to the right would be unlikely for his debut.
Amorim should consider turning to Bendito Mantato in the coming months. Mantato is a natural right-winger, but is as comfortable at left-back, making him the perfect choice to replace Amad during AFCON.
While he hasn’t made his professional debut, Mantato has impressed for the under-21s against senior League One and League Two opposition this season in the EFL Trophy after playing well on the pre-season tour under Amorim.
Mantato could be joined by academy aces in first team
While Mantato should be the next talent to make their professional debut at Old Trafford, there are several youngsters knocking on the first team door.
Shea Lacey has trained with United’s senior team frequently over recent weeks and could replace Mbeumo during the AFCON, as a similar profile. Jack Fletcher, who was named on the bench against Spurs, could be another option in that role, although he has played deeper recently.
In midfield, Jacob Devaney has had a stellar start to the season for United’s youth sides. The Republic of Ireland youth international has shown leadership and off-the-ball qualities for a long time, but has recently improved his in-possession skills.
Amorim has several talented academy talents to choose from during AFCON, but he hasn’t shown a willingness to debut youth players since his switch from Sporting CP in November 2024.
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