For all the excitement around Anthony Elanga and Amad ahead of kick-off, Teden Mengi was the young player who had fans buzzing after the Young Boys game.
The teenager came off the bench midway through the second half to replace Luke Shaw in a pre-planned change, with the England international just returning from injury.
Mengi was given a tough ask, to play in an unfamiliar left-back role, as opposed to his normal centre-back position.
The 19-year-old acquitted himself really well, especially considering United had a makeshift defence of Nemanja Matic partnering Eric Bailly. A lack of other left-back options meant ‘needs must’ for Mengi to fill in.
Mengi’s best moment came seconds after an unfortunate one, as he slipped when tracking back against a Young Boys counter attack. He recovered back to his feet quickly and went onto block a goalbound shot.
It was an outstanding piece of defending, with Mengi showing composure, quick reactions, good timing and great judgement to execute the block so well and get his team off the hook, with goalkeeper Tom Heaton then mopping up.
Mengi has a chance
Mengi spent the second half of last season on loan in the Championship with Derby County and was incredible unlucky not to secure a move this summer.
It is likely he heads out on loan in January, and this cameo performance will count in his favour. He looked sharper in this game than he did in pre-season, and that’s understandable as he has been picking up a good run of form for the under-23 side over the past few months.
Even if Ralf Rangnick wants to work with him, a loan is probably in his best interests due to the sheer volume of competition at centre-back at the club.
Rangnick’s connections may even help Mengi land a good European move, which would add to his experience. This was just his second senior Manchester United game, and first since his debut in August 2020. Now he needs to take the next step.
Reaction
Here is a look at how Manchester United fans reacted to Mengi’s performance last night…
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