Manchester United had some positives emerge from the 1-0 loss in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.
The post-season tour to Asia got off to a nightmare start for Ruben Amorim.
Losing 1-0 to ASEAN All-Stars, which is not even a real team but rather a makeshift all-star side, was not on Manchester United’s agenda for this tour.
The Red Devils’ supporters over in Malaysia were also far from impressed, as United were booed off the pitch after the uninspiring defeat.
This was a bad look for the club and could have an impact long-term on the global fanbase.
However, United had some standout performers who took the opportunity with both hands, one of whom was Shea Lacey, while his teammate also lit up the game.
Photo by Annice Lyn/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Annice Lyn/Manchester United via Getty Images
Sekou Kone stars for Manchester United
The most impressive period of the game for United came between the 32nd minute and half-time, when Amorim made four changes that lit the game on fire.
One of the additions was Sekou Kone, who instantly stood out as United’s best player on the pitch, running the show for this short cameo.
More United News
After the game, Amorim confirmed that Kone will get additional minutes, having been impressed, but this is bad news for one United star.
Kone’s breakthrough could see Toby Collyer sold
With Kone potentially set for a breakout over tour 2025, it might be that Toby Collyer ends up the casualty of this, with the 21-year-old becoming the spare part.
Collyer was adored by Erik ten Hag for his ‘freakish’ running; however, aside from some early successes, the former Brighton midfielder has not appeared to have Amorim’s trust.
Due to this, if Kone continues and proves himself capable of stepping up next season, then Amorim will likely be willing to sanction the sale of Collyer.
It should actually be a simple decision, as even a £15m sale of Collyer would be pure profit and open the door for further recruitment in the summer.
The chances of Collyer getting the minutes next season to improve look slim right now. Making a sale, the clear decision to make.
Ruben Amorim saw this coming
While Kone immediately looks like he belongs alongside first teamers is a nice surprise, it won’t be a shock to Amorim.
It was claimed earlier this year that Amorim expected Kone to leapfrog Collyer, with the head coach already trusting him.
Collyer could struggle to get into the team next season, which makes the permanent transfer best for all parties.