Manchester United’s post-season tour to Asia had few positives, but the breakout of a handful of youngsters was certainly one good thing to come from it.
Ruben Amorim took a strong squad on the tour last month for the two friendly fixtures against ASEAN All-Stars and Hong Kong, but there was still a host of academy talents on show.
Chido Obi stole the show with a brace, showing why Manchester United are so excited about him, making the opponents look easy after Rasmus Hojlund struggled.
Another standout from the fixtures was an electric Shea Lacey, who proved he can step up for United next season if given the chance to show his quality.
However, in midfield is where arguably the biggest statement was made. Sekou Kone was so impressive for United in the fixtures. In fact, Kone was so good that Amorim promised him future opportunities.
These may come in pre-season, but while on his summer holidays, Kone has been proving his quality off the pitch.
Sekou Kone lunges for the ball in action for Manchester United.
Photo by PETER PARKS/AFP via Getty Images
Sekou Kone proves what a class act he is during summer break
Since signing last summer from FC Guidars, Kone has more than proven himself to have all the potential United hoped he would.
However, in young talents, their quality off the pitch can sometimes be as important as on the pitch, and over the summer break, Kone has proven he has that in abundance.
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On Instagram, the youth football account Rising Ballers has posted, praising Kone for his recent trip back to his hometown in Mali.
Here, Kone gave out United shirts with his name and number on the back with friends, family, and locals all receiving a top, which is a brilliant touch.
Kone, remembering his roots, is great to see, and little touches like this reveal his character and show that he has his head screwed on.
The 19-year-old giving back to the community that made him is a testament to his humility, as it has been an issue with youngsters at the club lately.
Manchester United have got a gem on their hands in Sekou Kone
No matter what, Kone is set for a huge 2025-26 campaign either at United or out on loan.
The Malian midfielder proved this with how seamlessly he stepped into Amorim’s team in the post-season, and also in first-team training for a large period of the final three months of the season.
Kone quickly outgrew under-21 football, and next season he will either be starring on loan or getting minutes in Amorim’s team as a depth option. Amorim already trusts Kone, which could see him fast-tracked past more senior options if he proves himself worthy.
Either would be good for his development. United needs to avoid letting him stagnate on the bench.