Diego Leon just showcased his biggest asset in Man Utd win, it was too much for Bournemouth opponent

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Diego Leon is already making an impact for Manchester United.

After an agreement was struck last December, Diego Leon was formally confirmed as a Manchester United player this July.

Leon has made a positive impression already, earning a place on Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the USA.

He has had the opportunity to play against Premier League opposition, and in the 4-1 win over Bournemouth his contribution was particularly noteworthy.

Diego Leon uses strength to create assist

Diego Leon was playing for Paraguayan club Cerro Porteno, and even featured in the Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent to the Champions League.

Leon was one of the most highly-rated under-20 players in world football and was excited to clinch his ‘dream transfer’ to Manchester United.

In the win over Bournemouth, Diego Leon provided the assist for Ethan Williams to score United’s fourth goal, with both players coming off the bench.

Receiving the ball in a central area, Leon outmuscled Bournemouth midfielder Philip Billing, sending him spiralling to the floor in comical fashion.

This demonstrated the sheer strength Leon has to his physique, which is one of the key features of his game.

Along with comparisons to Marcelo, this was talked up by his former under-17s coach Badayco Maciel, who told The Athletic: “His physical strength was noticeable”.

He added: “He was technically good and had a change of pace. He was an attacking full-back, but he didn’t just go up the outside; he drove inside to get into the box and took shots. He was confident and he was daring.”

This was apparent in the way he spun away from Billing to carry the ball up the pitch and feed the ball into Ethan Williams, who did the rest.

Ruben Amorim backs Diego Leon

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim was impressed with Diego Leon straight away after a handful of training sessions.

Now after seeing him provide an assist against Bournemouth, Amorim expressed his admiration for how quickly Leon has adapted.

He said: “You can see it. He’s a smart guy. He’s a guy that came from Paraguay to come to the Premier League. He’s really powerful.”

Leon already looks to be equipped for the challenge ahead, and United might have found a gem.