LIVE
...

Follow us on

Academy

Man United wonderkid compared to Bukayo Saka receives international call-up after contract agreement

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United’s first-team results have been bleak but there is still plenty of excitement around the club’s academy prospects.

Since joining as head coach in November, Ruben Amorim has shown plenty of faith in Manchester United’s academy.

Chido Obi recently made his first United start, while Harry Amass, Tyler Fredricson and Toby Collyer have all become first-team regulars under his management.

It offers hope to United’s other academy players that there is a clear pathway to the first team, especially at a time when Amorim is looking to overhaul his squad.

Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United - U18 Premier League Cup
Photo by Harry Murphy/Manchester United via Getty Images

Bendito Mantato receives England call-up after Man United contract

Just last week, 17-year-old Bendito Mantato signed a professional contract with United, rejecting interest from four Premier League clubs in the process.

Mantato has been knocking on Amorim’s door for a first-team breakthrough, and his new contract suggests it is not too far away.

The young full-back, who seems an ideal fit as a wing-back in Amorim’s system, has now received more good news just days after his contract signing.

Bendito Mantato has been called up to England’s Under-17s squad for the European Championship this summer.

Mantato has already made a handful of appearances for the Three Lions at U17 level, and now he will travel to Albania looking to bring home silverware this summer.

Bendito Mantato closing in on Man United debut

At an academy level, Mantato has proven that he is ready for a step up.

United fans raved about Mantato in the FA Youth Cup after watching him play on both flanks for United’s youth team.

His performances out wide have seen Mantato compared to Bukayo Saka due to his play style and ability to bomb forward as a wing-back.

READ MORE: Sir Alex Ferguson watched as Man Utd wonderkid proved he can be a game-changer for Ruben Amorim’s system

United could be in the market for a new wing-back in the summer, but Mantato could save United millions if he is promoted to the first team and given a chance.

However, Mantato’s involvement in the European Championship could stop him from joining United’s post-season tour of Asia once the Premier League calendar comes to an end.