'Moves like Pogba, plays like Mainoo' - Man Utd fans are excited about Sekou Kone after first glimpse of 18-year-old in UEFA Youth League highlights

That is some billing for a hot prospect that will be hoping to make a senior breakthrough in the not too distant future. United won the race for Kone’s signature when snapping the 18-year-old midfielder up in the summer of 2024.

The Malian youngster has been slotted into United’s U18 ranks, allowing him to compete in the UEFA Youth League. His outings at that level are generating plenty of interest, with a player that operates in an important holding role earning comparisons to two former Old Trafford academy graduates.

United supporters have been quick to shower Kone with praise, with @yanitedscoop saying: “What a player moves like Pogba and plays like Mainoo.” On a similar theme, @Tintedeyekay added: “You people are seeing Sekou Kone, I'm seeing Zinedine Zidane.” @exfootballfan went on say “we copped Mainoo who can defend” while @RubensRedArmy_ added: “The hype around this kid is real.” Another of those to have been impressed, @ArunMS_, said: “Not bad. Looks like he's technical, quick, tenacious and comfortable on the ball which is what we've been crying out for.”

United have always offered a pathway into their first team for exciting youth team stars – from Sir Bobby Charlton through to David Beckham and Paul Scholes in the fabled Class of ‘92 and Alejandro Garnacho at present. Kone will be eager to tread a similar career path.