Photo by Poppy Townson - MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Poppy Townson - MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
Manchester United summer signing Cristian Orozco from Colombia had his inaugral appearance for the U21 side on Friday, with one thing immediately clear about him.
Despite only being signed officially earlier this summer, Cristian Orozco is already going under the radar at Manchester United following this £750,000 transfer from Fortaleza.
The 18-year-old is highly regarded by Ineos, with comparisons to Moises Caicedo obvious. However, unlike Diego Leon last summer, Orozco has been straight into the U21s, which is probably better for him settling into life in England.
Orozco will have been at pre-season in Germany with the U21s, developing relationships with his teammates ahead of his first challenge against Altrincham on Friday night. With one thing clear about him.
Altrincham v Manchester United U21: Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
Cristian Orozco - Sofascore
Cristian Orozco - Sofascore
Cristian Orozco has the physicality to thrive in English football
Orozco has clearly settled in well so far, he was spotted before the Altrincham game talking to Amir Ibragimov, who is one of the major leaders in the academy dressing room, and also Enzo Kana-Biyik who is a fellow summer arrival.
The game wasn’t televised, but we know Orozco got around 30 minutes of football, and while we cannot make judgements on his performance, there was one thing which stood out.
This being that Orozco looks physically ready for the challenge of English football, looking far further along in that aspect compared to Sekou Kone.
When Kone arrived from Mali, he was really slight and struggled in his debut season against non-league sides and in the EFL Trophy, but Orozco looks strong and like he wouldn’t mind a physical clash.
Orozco should settle a lot quicker, without the need to spend ages in the gym, which hopefully means this season allows him to develop on the pitch and become a viable option for Michael Carrick over the coming months.
If clips of Orozco in action are anything to go off, Carrick could be having a look sooner than you might assumed.
Manchester United v Intercontinental FA: Super Cup NI - Boys Premier
Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
Orozco looked solid during Manchester United U21 debut
There is limited footage of Orozco against Altrincham, but in the highlights seen, he looked really positive.
Playing in the number six position, Orozco looked really confident and composed in possession, dictating play and even playing some really impressive cross-field balls.
Orozco looked very progressive in his play, always looking to punch his passes through the lines to more advanced teammates and to already be playing like this is a great sign.
It is only early, but signs are positive and they will only get better. Orozco looks to be a real talent and we can’t wait to see more of him.