Manchester United academy star Sekou Kone came back from a lengthy injury absence and starred for Mali’s youth side.
Sekou Kone was signed by Manchester United as part of Ineos’ strategy shift towards securing future superstars.
After impressing Ruben Amorim in the post-season tour of Asia, it seemed as though Kone was primed for a breakthrough season at United.
Kone was looking transformed and ready for first-team football, but he suffered a fractured eye socket playing for the Under-21s against Tamworth.
The ill-timed injury derailed his progress, but Kone returned after three months to feature for Mali this week.
Sekou Kone scores twice against Indonesia U23s
The timing of Kone’s return neatly aligns with the upcoming hectic winter fixture list for United in the Premier League.
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Amorim may have to look to the academy to strengthen his first-team squad if there are any injuries or absentees, and he will like what he is seeing from Kone.
On Tuesday, Kone scored both goals for Mali’s U23s as they drew 2-2 with Indonesia’s U23s.
Kone was the star of the show in the international friendly, and he should return to Carrington full of confidence.
What Man United have planned for Sekou Kone
Kone was signed as a future prospect for United, so there will be no rush to force him into the first team.
However, his performance for Mali proves that he is ready to be playing senior football regularly.
With that in mind, United are open to loaning Kone to help him gain experience elsewhere. The Red Devils have had success loaning academy stars Radek Vitek and Harry Amass this season, and Kone could follow in their footsteps.
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Considering that Kobbie Mainoo is struggling for game time in United’s midfield, it is hard to see how Kone can get minutes this season.
He will have to remain patient and continue to catch Amorim’s attention with performances just like the one against Indonesia.
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