Ruben Amorim could be set to promote one Manchester United wonderkid for the upcoming derby game following the Under-18s thrashing of Leeds on Saturday afternoon.
Manchester United turn their attention to rivals Manchester City ahead of the derby on Sunday afternoon, with Pep Guardiola’s side travelling to Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim and his team are looking to complete the first league double over City in five years.
The Portuguese boss is likely going to have some youth talent in his squad. Chido Obi could return after missing the game against Nottingham Forest.
There was also a potential hint about another player’s involvement following United’s Under-18s thrashing of Leeds this weekend.
Amorim set to promote Mantato after Leeds thrashing
It was a staggering 13-1 win for United’s youngsters with Victor Musa grabbing six of the goals in the game. Jim Thwaites also netted a hat-trick, while 14-year-old JJ Gabriel scored twice on his debut.
There was much to shout about for Adam Lawrence’s side, who bounced back terrifically after their FA Youth Cup heartbreak against Aston Villa last week.
However, one noticeable thing from the game was the absence of Bendito Mantato, who wasn’t even named on the bench.
With no Under-21s clash until Monday night, that may point towards potential first-team involvement for Mantato in the derby on Sunday.
Amorim wants to give Mantato debut
Mantato is set to sign his first professional contract for United soon and it has been reported that Amorim wants to give him a debut before the end of the season.
Involvement against City would be the first major step towards that as Mantato has not yet appeared in a matchday squad for the first-team.
The 17-year-old has been described as “fantastic” and could operate in the right wingback position in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.
He has played on the wing and at left-back for United beforehand, and has the capabilities in both defence and attack to excel in that position.
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While he is unlikely to come on the pitch, getting experience on the bench in the Manchester derby could be great for the teenager.
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