While much of the conversation around Manchester United this summer has centred on Ruben Amorim’s senior squad, the club’s youth development teams remain a vital part of the long-term project.
United have a track record of producing top-level talent from their academy.
The next wave of youngsters will be looking to make their mark before stepping up to the first team.
These fixtures are just as important for shaping the future, and tonight’s National League Cup tie against Tamworth was another opportunity for the club’s rising stars to shine.
Travis Binnion named a strong XI, though it featured some interesting tweaks – with Devaney starting in central defence despite not being a natural in the role, while Kukonki began on the bench.
Obi led the line, supported by Mantato and Scanlon.
While Sekou Kone operated unusually deep, often dropping between centre-backs to receive the ball as United dominated possession.
However, sad news has since emerged from the game.
According to Steven Railston on X, the match took a worrying turn in the 42nd minute when Kone suffered a head injury following a clash with a Tamworth player.
The midfielder initially got back to his feet before going down again on medical advice, prompting lengthy treatment on the pitch.
By the 45th minute, he was still receiving attention before being stretchered off, with the game suspended at 0-0.
It remains to be seen how serious the injury is, but the incident has cast a shadow over what was shaping up to be a promising outing from Kone and the team.
United fans will be hoping the injury isn’t major, considering the promise and potential around Kone.
Sekou Kone has left the pitch on a stretcher and was holding a mask to his face. Really hope it’s nothing serious #mufc pic.twitter.com/glRWtB89Ek
— Steven Railston (@StevenRailston) August 13, 2025
