Ruben Amorim names 6ft 5in 16-year-old in the squad who has been compared to Josko Gvardiol and is set to save Man United £80m
Manchester United's latest teenage sensation traveled with the matchday squad for Ruben Amorim's first Premier League game.
Godwill Kukonki impressed the Portuguese coach in his first week of training with the first team and was rewarded ipswich town.
Amorim, who is only three years older than the veteran defender Johnny Evanshas shown its commitment to promoting young talent.
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho Both have become pillars of the first team since their promotion from low ranks Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman's successor Amorim may now have found his first academy success at Old Trafford under Kukonki.
The 16-year-old caught the eye at Carrington after joining the older stars in training and traveled with the team to take on Ipswich.
Kukonki was ultimately left out of the matchday squad, but his presence at Portman Road is a sign of his high level.
The budding centre-back is one of the tallest players in his age range at a whopping 6ft 5in, which is an inch taller than Harry Maguire.
His imposing physique, added to his versatility to play as a left back in the under-18s, has already earned him comparisons with Josko Gvardiol.
Kukonki could solve a problem area for Amorim, which is known for using three central defenders in his favorite formation.
Man United signed a right-footed defensive pairing leny yoro and Matthijs de Ligt this summer, but are believed to remain interested in a left-footed shot.
talkSPORT revealed this month that United are planning a new move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite next summer.
3
3
United had two offers for the England international worth up to £50m. refused before the start of this season, but the 22-year-old remains at the top of his wish list.
However, Kukonki has a natural ability to play left-footed, which could prevent the club from having to equalise. EvertonThe reported price is £80 million.
His secondary role as a left back will also be very useful for Amorim, considering Luke Shaw and Tyrell MalaciaThe injury history.
Kukonki has scored one goal and provided one assist in his nine appearances for United's under-18 team so far.
He hasn't made his Premier League 2 debut yet, but he got an assist in his only UEFA Left the Youth League as a left back last month.
Kukonki was on the bench in the 2-0 win over Newcastle in Premier League 2.
He made a brief cameo in the National League Cup before the victory of United U21 Forest green rovers 3-2 in October.
