Man United Fans Urge Club to Rethink Plans After Standout Performance by Young Star
Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United side had a tough night in Malaysia, suffering a disappointing loss to the ASEAN All-Stars at Bukit Jalil National Stadium. Despite the poor result, fans were excited by one major positive — the performance of a rising talent.
As part of their post-season tour, United are playing two matches in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong. The tour, expected to earn the club around £8 million, is crucial for helping them stay within the Premier League’s financial regulations.
The 32-man squad included some well-known players, along with several youth academy prospects like Tyler Fletcher, Jack Moorhouse, Jim Thwaites, and Shea Lacey. However, it was 19-year-old Sekou Kone who grabbed fans’ attention.
Kone, a Malian defensive midfielder signed last August for around £1 million plus add-ons, impressed on his senior debut with his composure and ball control.
Initially expected to go on loan to FC Lausanne-Sport (owned by INEOS), his impressive showing has led fans to call for him to stay and be included in the first team.
Reactions on social media were overwhelmingly positive:
- “Sekou Kone is going to be a superstar, get him in the first team.”
- “No idea why we’re loaning him next season — he should stay.”
- “Credit to the scouting and transfer team for spotting him.”
- “Not surprised by the quality — Kone is a baller.”
- “Excited to see more of him in the first team.”
Aside from Kone’s performance, United ultimately lost 1-0 after Maung Maung Lwin, captain of Myanmar’s national team, scored the only goal of the match in the 71st minute.