Ruben Amorim to include 16-year-old academy star in first matchday squad after impressing in training

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·24 November 2024

Ruben Amorim to include 16-year-old academy star in first matchday squad after impressing in training

We are just hours away from learning Ruben Amorim’s first starting eleven as Manchester United head coach, with the Reds set to face Ipswich Town in the Premier League.

Fans are eager for Amorim’s spell to start with a win after a poor start the season, although Ruud van Nistelrooy did help stop the rot after Erik ten Hag was dismissed as manager.

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Van Nistelrooy was sent on his way after Amorim’s arrival, so there’s an entirely new coaching staff leading the team today.

However, Amorim has impressed with his media duties early on. We know he has charisma and can talk the talk, but on the pitch we’ll find out if his team can walk the walk.

Going into the game, it bodes well that Ipswich are struggling and currently sit in the relegation zone. United are favourites and have the players on paper – regardless of system deployed – to secure three points.

United know a win would take them from 12th to 10th in the Premier League this weekend, which would be a step in the right direction as Amorim looks to get us back into the top four.

Amorim is expected to implement a 3-4-3 formation but it’s unlikely there will be many changes given the limited time he has had with the team this week.

Big moment for Godwill Kukonki

Photo by @UtdExclusive on X

According to Academy Scoop on X, a 16-year-old centre-back will be included in Amorim’s first matchday squad.

Godwill Kukonki, who stands at 6ft 5in, has had a memorable week after being called up to train with the first team squad. It is understood that the youngster impressed Amorim in training and has earned his first call up to the senior squad for today’s game.

Kukanki is unlikely to start against the Tractor Boys, but it shows that Amorim already has an eye for promoting young players to the first team.

Ten Hag had a lot of success with United’s academy after promoting Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo to the first team squad.

We’ll bring you confirmation when everything is announced.