Diego Leon has been training with Manchester United's first-team since his summer move from Cerro Porteno, but the 18-year-old left-back still has plenty to prove before earning Premier League minutes. Despite ambitious claims ahead of his arrival, Leon is far from ready to feature for Ruben Amorim's senior squad.
Leon's forgettable Man Utd Under-21 debut
Leon made his debut for Manchester United's Under-21 team in a 2-1 win at Liverpool on Sunday, playing 45 minutes before being substituted at half-time. He struggled to link with teammate Bendito Mantato on the left flank and was booked for a cynical challenge in a dangerous area. Liverpool exploited Leon's side of the pitch, and United fell behind before adjustments were made with Mantato moving to left-back and James Scanlon coming on at left wing.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesLeon struggling to settle into life in Manchester
The reports that Leon had been training with the first-team group over playing junior matches since his arrival. He does not yet speak English, which has made settling into life in England more difficult, and teammate Victor Musa has acted as an informal translator. That being said, he is thought to be popular with more senior players, who consider him the 'little brother'.
While scouts have questioned why Leon was prioritised over Harry Amass, who is impressing on loan at Sheffield Wedesday, the club appears focused on giving the young Sourth American time to develop before considering senior minutes.
Leon expected direct entry into the first-team
Before his July arrival, Leon confidently stated: "Everyone thinks I'll go out on loan, but I don't have that mindset. I'm going to kill it in pre-season and within one or two games, I'll already be playing with them." However, observers at his first Under-21 match noted he struggled to establish any rhythm and was exposed defensively. The 18-year-old still has work to do to match the physicality, pace, and tactical awareness required at first-team level.
Getty Images SportLeon to continue with the Under-21s for foreseeable future
For the foreseeable future, Leon will remain with the Under-21s to gain match experience and adapt to life in England out of the spotlight. Fans may recall a similar approach being taken with a teenage Amad Diallo in 2021 that is now paying off.
United appear committed to Leon's long-term development, but will have to be patient before expecting him to thrive in Premier League action.
