I have decided to promote him to the first-team squad since we’re not getting the needed qualities from that particular position”: Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim has promoted a generational talent from academy due to lack of quality from ONE position. THIS GUY LOOK LIKE LIONEL MESSI AND PLAY EXACTLY LIKE HIM, I’LL LIKE TO SEE HIM PLAY FOR SENIOR TEAM SOON.

Amorim Promotes Rising Star to Manchester United First Team Amid Defensive Concerns

As Manchester United gears up for another high-stakes showdown in the Manchester Derby, manager Rúben Amorim is turning to the club’s academy once again — this time calling up 17-year-old talent Godwill Kukonki to the senior squad.

Tactical Move or Necessity?

Ahead of the derby, Amorim made it clear that the current options in one defensive position aren’t delivering the desired quality. With key defender Matthijs de Ligt facing a possible injury absence and both Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro still regaining match fitness, Amorim sees this as the right time to trust youth.

Despite not being the most hyped academy graduate, Kukonki — who was once Amorim’s top pick from the youth ranks — is now set to make the bench against Manchester City. His promotion comes after fellow prospects Ayden Heaven, Harry Amass, and Chido Obi impressed in recent outings.

A Potential Debut on the Biggest Stage

Sources close to the club, including transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, have confirmed Kukonki’s call-up to the matchday squad. But this isn’t just a symbolic inclusion — with United’s defensive depth stretched thin, there’s a real possibility Kukonki could make his senior debut during one of the most intense fixtures in English football.

It’s a huge opportunity for the teenager, who, while not always consistent at the youth level, possesses a strong physical presence that Amorim seems to admire. That raw strength could be an asset in such a high-pressure environment.

Amorim’s Youth Movement Continues

Amorim has made it a priority to give young players meaningful chances rather than just bench appearances. Heaven, for example, was thrown into the mix in a difficult match and came out stronger for it. Amorim appears to be applying the same philosophy with Kukonki.

Even if he hasn’t been the standout performer in the academy recently, Amorim’s trust in Kukonki signals belief in his long-term potential. His call-up for the derby could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the defender’s career.

Big Risk or Bold Statement?

With such a massive game on the line, some might question whether it’s wise to rely on a teenager in a critical defensive role. But Amorim’s track record of nurturing young talent suggests this isn’t a gamble — it’s a calculated step.

Will Kukonki rise to the occasion if given the chance — or would United be better off relying on more experienced hands? Either way, this decision adds a fascinating layer to an already tense derby clash.