Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is expected to take more interest in the academy compared to former boss Erik ten Hag, according to Manchester Evening News.
The Red Devils parted ways with Ten Hag earlier last month following a run of four wins from 14 matches. Ruud van Nistelrooy was placed in temporary charge for four games before the international break.
Amorim will take control as the permanent manager once his working visa is approved, but he has already made contact with some of the players at the Carrington training centre.
Amorim could bring the best out of academy talents
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho made their breakthrough under Ten Hag. The duo were the brightest talents in the academy, and they have become key first-team figures.
However, some fans expected Ten Hag to hand more opportunities to young talents. Harry Amass had a positive pre-season last summer, but he has yet to make his senior debut.
With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia injured earlier this season, Ten Hag had the chance to test the full-back’s credentials, but he preferred to stick with more experienced faces.
Things could be different under Amorim. At Sporting CP, Goncalo Inacio made his first-team bow at just 19. Ousmane Diomande also became a mainstay after joining as a teenager.
Geovany Quenda was likewise handed the chance to excel from right wing-back this season. The 17-year-old’s performances have already attracted plenty of high-profile interest.
Amorim could follow a similar policy at United. Teenager Bendito Mantato could be one to watch out for. The youngster started off as a left-back, but he has become a regular right-winger.
He has seven goal contributions for the Under 18s this term and has been likened to Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka.
Amorim could consider him as an option for both wing-back positions. He is predominantly left-footed and possesses good defensive awareness, having started his career as a defender.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
