Since INEOS’ arrival at Manchester United, there has been a noticeable shift towards recruiting young talents from abroad – particularly from South America – who can develop their skills within the club’s structure.
The strategy has focused on players who can either rise through the academy into the first team or gain valuable experience out on loan before returning to make an impact at Old Trafford.
Diego Leon is one of the latest examples of that recruitment drive, with his signing agreed months before his recent arrival in Manchester.
The 18-year-old boasts a rare blend of technical and physical qualities as a left wing-back – a position that has become increasingly difficult to fill at the highest level, especially with Luke Shaw’s ongoing fitness challenges.
According to Daily Mail’s report, Leon has already become the talk of the United dressing room, with one source describing him as the most popular player at the club right now.
The Paraguayan doesn’t speak English, but that hasn’t stopped senior pros from rallying around him, with United’s Spanish-speaking contingent going out of their way to help him settle in.
MUTV have even conducted interviews with him in Spanish, while teammates have embraced him as “like a little brother,” showing both banter and fierce protection in equal measure.
Leon’s smooth integration has also had a knock-on effect for fellow youngster Harry Amass, whose pathway now points towards a loan move this season.
It is still undecided whether Leon will top up his game time with the Under-21s, though he is expected to serve primarily as backup to Patrick Dorgu.
His quick rise in popularity and the support he’s receiving emphasises the strong bonds forming in United’s evolving, youth-focused squad.
Leon was recently handed the no.30 shirt – however that has now changed to 35 following Benjamin Sesko’s arrival.
Sesko will instead, be wearing the no.30 shirt.
