He has not yet played a minute yet in the Premier League this season. But Axel Tuanzebe can be pleased with how it has gone.
Missing from both of Manchester United’s starting line-ups, Tuanzebe has featured on the bench twice.
This is notable, because on both occasions, he was the only centre-back selected.
Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, and Chris Smalling are yet to make a matchday 18.
Solskjaer has made it clear that right now, he sees Tuanzebe as next in line and clear third choice behind Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf.
Looking forward
This important, because it signifies Solskjaer is moving United’s defence into a new era.
Sure, Smalling and Jones are there in case of a ‘break glass in case of emergency’ injury pile up, but for now they are afterthoughts.
Tuanzebe getting his chance is inevitable. It could even come this weekend against Crystal Palace.
He was subject of loan interest this summer and could be starting somewhere else already. He’s better off having stayed put.
Despite his lack of gametime so far, being selected as the only defender on the bench is a sign of faith from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. It speaks volumes.
He may be hidden from view, but Solskjaer’s selections have been striking.
Considering Harry Maguire’s signing, Tuanzebe’s situation is a best case scenario so far. Its good to see.
Tuanzebe should be encouraged, and he has a chance to really solidify himself as third choice before Eric Bailly returns from injury in December.
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