The answer to many of Ruben Amorim’s problems at Manchester United can be found in the academy.
While not a foolproof plan, Carrington has produced a consistent line of high-potential players over the past few years, and during 2025-26, Ruben Amorim may need to lean heavily.
Amorim used plenty of academy talents at Sporting CP over the years, handing out 27 debuts in total. This was likely a big factor in Ineos wanting the Portuguese head coach at Manchester United.
Amorim was appointed by United in November, and since then, he has shown similar signs of trusting youth and has integrated several talents already. This includes Amorim handing out three academy debuts in his brief time in charge of the club, but more are expected.
United have multiple youngsters who are knocking on the door and could offer a potentially thin squad some much-needed depth and quality over the next 12 months.
Of all the options, one name in particular has made himself undeniable for Amorim.
Bendito Mantato kneeslide for Manchester United.
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Bendito Mantato set for breakout Manchester United season under Ruben Amorim
Manchester United have a very talented group of academy players who are hoping that they will make the jump to first-team football in the new season, and few are better positioned than Bendito Mantato.
Despite being just 17, Mantato has already thrived for United’s U21s, putting in performances which have left him considered among the most exciting talents at the club. Mantato finished the season with 10 goals and four assists across U18 and U21, averaging a goal contribution every 94 minutes.
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Bendito Mantato scored 10 and assisted 4 in 1,315 minutes across all competitions last season, averaging a goal or assist every 94 minutes.
Could be developed into an ideal Ruben Amorim wingback long-term. 🔝 pic.twitter.com/czRp5nloq8
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) June 30, 2025
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Mantato was handed a professional contract by United soon after his 17th birthday, demonstrating the confidence that the club has in him becoming a star.
This has all built Mantato into a talent who is ready for the next step, and the 2025-26 campaign looks like a potential breakout season for him. Capable of playing on either side as a wing-back for Amorim’s system, there will be plenty of opportunity for the England youth international to impress.
Clearly, the club are also expecting big things with Mantato getting a new United first team squad number as he went from 85 to 70, a sign that he is in mind for a role under Amorim right now.
Mantato has been in first-team training this pre-season, and we would not be shocked if he were currently playing himself onto the plane to America later this month. In terms of potential, the sky is the limit for Mantato, and it is time he was given the chance to show why.
Bendito Mantato is the next one up for Manchester United
Testament to his ability, Mantato has been compared with Bukayo Saka for his ability to create down the right while also being a goal threat on his left foot.
For those who watch the academy, it is often obvious how good Mantato is, as the teenager is usually the biggest impactor on games and the most dangerous player on the pitch.
This was even the case on Chido Obi’s debut when Mantato scored twice, and now this season, the English youngster is up next.
Mantato could be a strong alternative to Geovany Quenda at wing-back, being more of a winger, but having the physical qualities to play the role, and this coming season, he will have Amad to learn under. Mantato is quick, strong, and importantly has elite technique, which all combine to make him a superstar in the making.
It is an exciting year coming up for Mantato, and we cannot wait to see if and when Amorim unleashes the winger in the first team.