Man Utd offer update after Under-21 match abandoned as Sekou Kone is stretchered off with horror head injury

Kone suffered a clash of heads during an aerial battle as he tried to thwart an opposition set-piece. He remained on the pitch for nearly 15 minutes, receiving urgent medical attention before the half-time whistle. Tamworth’s official social media confirmed the abandonment, posting: “Due to the medical situation, we are forced to abandon tonight’s fixture. Details will be revealed in due course. We would like to wish safe travels to all the Man United fans, staff and players. We especially wish Sekou Kone a speedy recovery.”

Manchester Evening News reported that a replacement ambulance was required at the Lamb Ground, prolonging the stoppage and forcing officials to call off the game entirely. At the time, the score remained 0-0.

United swiftly issued a statement on Koné’s condition, offering reassurance to fans and supporters: "We can confirm Sekou is conscious, stable and communicating with United’s medical team. He has been taken to hospital, as a precaution, for further checks. Everybody at the club wishes him a speedy recovery."

Koeé, who joined United last summer for a reported £1 million, has been touted as one of the club’s brightest young talents. Often compared to former midfield maestro Yaya Toure, the 19-year-old caught the eye with his performances at the 2023 U17 World Cup, where Mali finished third. Despite not yet making his senior debut, Kone played 14 times for the U21s last season, impressing with his tactical awareness in midfield.