Amir Ibragimov was the shining light for Manchester United on a stormy Saturday morning in Carrington.
Adam Lawrence’s side earned a comfortable win on Saturday despite the treacherous weather conditions. It was three first-half goals which did the job for Manchester United as Leeds simply could not handle Amir Ibragimov.
For Leeds losing 3-0 to United may even be considered a success when the recent 8-0 is taken into account.
The scoring was opened by right-back Jaydan Kamason in less than two minutes as his cross ended up creeping into the far post.
Following this, United squandered a number of chances before James Scanlon made it 2-0 from close range in the 40th minute – his 10th U18 goal of the season.
Chido Obi-Martin rounded out the half with what turned out to be the winner in the 44th minute as he also scored from close range for his fifth of the season.
But despite not scoring it was Ibragimov who was the standout.
READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
Amir Ibragimov provides three assists vs Leeds
Despite not putting himself on the scoresheet, Ibragimov was the game’s most valuable player.
Ibragimov assisted all three goals United scored, and he also impressed across the pitch as he practically ran the game in the No.10 position.
The first was a lovely through ball to Kamason who finished the move in excellent fashion. Ibragimov’s second assist was a well-worked cutback after he dribbled down the line and into the box before finding Scanlon in a position he couldn’t possibly miss.
The final assist was probably the most impressive because it involved a header, despite his diminutive stature. The header was back across goal and into Obi-Martin’s feet who gladly converted the chance.
Ibragimov is tipped as a future first-team star and his outings this season have showcased exactly why. The Dagestan-born talent is showcasing why he is so highly rated and now has five goals and six assists in U18 action this season along with a further goal at U21 level.
But for MUTV’s Liam Bradford, there is one lesser-known talent Ibragimov possesses which makes him special.
Ibragimov praised by MUTV commentator
While the 16-year-old talent was getting busy at the offensive end of the pitch with assists, in a defensive aspect, he was also impressive.
MUTV commentator Liam Bradford was impressed by Ibragimov’s work rate as the youngster was not only causing problems in attack but also getting back to defend and help his teammates.
“Ibragimov again”, Bradford remarked, “he’s absolutely everywhere. A real nuisance for the opposition”.
This work rate he is adding to his game, along with being good at nipping the ball from opponents before quickly starting a break.
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